Fatshimetrie, September 16, 2024
The lack of transparency and commitment of the Maniema Mining Company (MIMA) towards local communities in the Babira Bakwame sector, in Maniema, is raising serious concerns among civil society. Indeed, the absence of clear specifications between MIMA and the villages of Matumba, Mulungo and Mboka has caused a rise in tensions within these communities, jeopardizing the stability of the region.
Since 2010, MIMA has been operating mining sites in these villages without having formalized a partnership with local residents. This precarious situation has led to legitimate demands from the communities, fearing a scenario similar to that of Salamabila, where the absence of specifications led to the emergence of a rebel movement.
Faced with this alarming situation, civil society in the province of Maniema calls on provincial and national authorities to take concrete measures. One of the main recommendations is the immediate withdrawal of the mining permit granted to MIMA due to its failure to respect commitments to local communities for more than eight years. In addition, the suspension of the company’s activities in the province is deemed necessary to guarantee the safety and rights of the inhabitants of the region.
For local communities, civil society calls for patience and vigilance, encouraging them to remain united and resilient while waiting for viable and sustainable solutions. It is essential that the inhabitants of Matumba, Mulungo and Mboka are at the heart of decisions that directly concern them, in order to guarantee a peaceful and prosperous future for all.
This situation highlights the persistent challenges related to mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the interests of local communities must be prioritized to ensure equitable and sustainable development. It is imperative that mining companies engage transparently and respectfully with the populations affected by their activities, in order to build harmonious and beneficial relationships for all stakeholders involved.
In conclusion, the situation in the Babira Bakwame sector highlights the need for fairer and more ethical governance in the mining sector. It is time to act collectively to ensure respect for the rights of local communities and to promote sustainable and inclusive development in Maniema province and beyond.
Fatshimetrie remains vigilant about the evolution of this case and will continue to inform its readers about future developments.
Stay tuned for our next edition for more information and in-depth analysis on social and economic issues in the Democratic Republic of Congo.