Some exciting news has recently emerged from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) regarding gold exports. During the first six months of 2023, the country managed to export as much as 15 tonnes of gold to international markets, generating revenue of approximately US$677.3 million.
According to a report from the DRC Ministry of Mines, the Kibali Gold company was the main player in this export, with more than 13 tonnes of raw gold estimated at a value of $556.1 million. The MCCR company, for its part, exported only 15.83 kg of gold, which generated revenues of around $847,103.
Figures reveal that the majority of gold exports from industrial mining come from Kibali Gold, accounting for 88% of the total volume, while MCCR accounts for only 0.12% of this volume.
Regarding raw gold from artisanal mining, exports during the first half of 2023 reached more than two tons, which brought in estimated revenues of $120.3 million. The province of South Kivu is the origin of the majority of these exports, representing 96.86% of the total volume, followed by Tanganyika with 1.63%, the province of Kinshasa with 0.56%, Ituri with 0.53% and Tshopo with 0.43%.
This performance in the gold export sector in the DRC is very encouraging and confirms the country’s economic potential in the mining industry. These massive exports not only help to stimulate the national economy, but they are also a sign of confidence of international markets in the quality and quantity of Congolese gold.
However, it is important to ensure that these mining activities are carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, taking into account environmental and social consequences. It is essential that mining in the DRC be governed by strict rules in terms of environmental protection, respect for human rights and equitable redistribution of benefits for the Congolese people.
There is therefore still work to be done to ensure that mining in the DRC is carried out in the interest of all, while maximizing economic benefits and conserving natural resources for future generations.
In conclusion, the recent massive gold exports from the DRC are good news for the country’s economy. However, it is crucial to be vigilant and put measures in place to ensure responsible and sustainable mining. This will maximize economic benefits while preserving the environment and promoting the well-being of local populations.