The report published by the Carter Center on the specifications of mining companies in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights a worrying reality. Indeed, it reveals a rate of signature of specifications below expectations, with only 18% of them signed out of the 402 planned between 2018 and 2024. In addition, the budgets allocated to these specifications are largely insufficient, representing on average only 0.2% of the turnover of the mining companies concerned.
This situation raises questions about the financing of the specifications and highlights the divergences between mining operators and the communities affected. Indeed, holders of mining titles often use the provision of the mining code relating to the allocation of 0.3% of turnover for sustainable development in order to circumvent their financial obligations towards the specifications.
Fabien Mayani, Head of the Human Rights and Just Transition Program at The Carter Center, emphasizes the importance of funding for the specifications coming from the social budget of mining companies, rather than the minimum allocation imposed by the mining code. This approach would ensure adequate financial support for communities affected by mining activities.
The causes of the low level of signature of specifications and the limited budgets allocated to them are multiple, ranging from information asymmetry between communities and companies to a lack of sustainable investment culture among some operators. In addition, the lack of control and monitoring mechanisms by government authorities contributes to this worrying situation.
To address these issues, The Carter Center makes several recommendations, such as establishing a minimum budget threshold for specifications, creating a budget line dedicated to the operation of the permanent commission for the instruction of specifications at the provincial level, and integrating the principles of free, prior and informed consent of communities into the legal framework of the DRC.
It is essential that concrete and effective measures are taken to ensure that mining activities in the DRC truly benefit local communities and contribute to the sustainable development of the country. Transparency, accountability and the commitment of the various stakeholders are key elements in achieving a more equitable mining sector that respects the rights of the populations concerned.