The recent expulsion of Chinese nationals for illegal mining in South Kivu province has sparked outrage among local civil society. The action, which took place abruptly on 24 December, sparked a heated debate within the community.
According to Néné Bintu, president of the civil society coordination office in the region, the expulsion followed pressure from contacts at the migration service and within the police. She points out that the group of Chinese concerned does not have permits to explore and mine for minerals, which is a flagrant violation of the regulations in force. The president deplores this situation, which she describes as unacceptable for South Kivu.
Furthermore, the governor of the province has expressed his dissatisfaction with the way this case was handled. He wants to shed light on these events, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of the region’s natural resources.
Indeed, the 17 Chinese nationals arrested are accused of illegally exploiting minerals on the Karhembo site, thus violating the laws governing the mining sector. Located in the Rubimbi group, Walungu territory, this site has been the heart of a scandal that highlights the challenges that the province of South Kivu must face in terms of preserving its mineral resources.
This case once again reveals the issues related to the exploitation of natural resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo, raising questions about the ability of the authorities to guarantee ethical and legal exploitation of these riches that are vital for the development of the country. It is crucial to put in place effective and transparent control mechanisms in order to combat illegal exploitation and preserve the interests of South Kivu and its inhabitants.