**Fatshimetrie: Suspension of mining in the DRC, a crucial decision for the future of the Tshopo province**
The Tshopo province, located in the north-east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently took a crucial decision by suspending mining in the region. This measure, voted by the provincial assembly, aims to restore order in a mining sector that, according to local authorities, brings nothing to the province.
This decision follows a fact-finding mission that was conducted in the Bafwasende territory and which revealed a lack of transparency and regulation in the local gold sector. Indeed, the owners of the mining sites are not clearly identified, and the illegal presence of soldiers on these sites has been reported. In addition, no mining activity is officially registered, which underlines the need to restore order in this sector crucial to the economy of the province.
The President of the Provincial Assembly, Dr. Mateus Kanga, highlighted the paradox between the significant production of gold and diamonds in the province and the lack of profits from this exploitation. While other provinces in the country benefit from substantial mining revenues thanks to mining royalties, Tshopo does not benefit from these resources.
It is important to emphasize that mining in the DRC is largely dominated by foreign actors, including expatriates operating under the cover of cooperatives. The suspension of mining in Tshopo province should allow for better regulation of this activity and ensure a better redistribution of the revenues generated by the exploitation of mineral resources.
In conclusion, the decision to suspend mining in Tshopo province is an important first step towards more transparent and equitable management of mineral resources in the region. This measure should contribute to replenishing the province’s coffers and ensuring sustainable and equitable development for the future of the local population.