Gold mines in the DRC: towards responsible and sustainable exploitation
During the recent regional forum on the implementation of the Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining Strategy (ASGM) of the international conference on the Great Lakes region (ICGLR) in Kinshasa, the President of the Mining Cadastre , Mbindule Mitono Crispin, stressed the importance of making mines a source of peace rather than conflict.
As part of this exchange, the participants discussed the traceability of the exploitation and marketing of gold in the DRC, as well as in the sub-region. This approach aims to establish a regional mineral tracking system, thus promoting responsible artisanal gold trade in the Great Lakes region.
It is important to note that the gold sector has considerable potential in terms of economic growth and development in this region. This is why Prime Minister Sama Lukonde launched this forum to contribute to efforts to fully realize this potential.
However, for artisanal gold mining to be truly beneficial, it is essential to put in place monitoring and control mechanisms, particularly in terms of compliance with environmental standards, respect for workers’ rights and prevention. conflicts linked to mining.
The establishment of a regional mineral tracking system will ensure transparency of the gold supply chain, from mine to market. This will help combat illicit trade and harmful practices, while promoting the socio-economic development of the region.
It is also important to raise awareness and train artisanal mining operators in good operating practices, particularly in terms of environmental and social management. This will reduce the harmful impact of mining on the environment and local communities, while ensuring responsible and sustainable exploitation of resources.
In conclusion, artisanal gold mining in the DRC and the Great Lakes region has considerable potential to contribute to economic development. However, it is essential to put in place monitoring and control mechanisms to ensure responsible and sustainable exploitation. The establishment of a regional mineral tracking system is a step in the right direction, helping to promote responsible artisanal gold trading while preserving the environment and workers’ rights.