Title: The need to promote local employment in mining companies in the DRC
Introduction :
The mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo plays a vital role in the country’s economy, providing numerous employment opportunities. However, it is often found that local populations do not fully benefit from these opportunities, leaving the local workforce marginalized. This article looks at the recent intervention of MP Nanou MEMBA, who raises the issue of subcontracting and job offers for local labor by KICO SA, and expresses the need to promote local employment in mining companies in the DRC.
The observation of marginalization:
A deputy committed to his electoral base of Kipushi, Nanou MEMBA is concerned about the marginalization of children in this region in terms of employment in the mining company KICO SA. While the territory of Kipushi mainly depends on the mining activities of Gecamines, the cessation of its activities had a negative impact on the social fabric of the local population. The resumption of activities by KICO SA raised hopes of seeing the local workforce benefit from these opportunities, but unfortunately, the observation on the ground is different. Jobs and subcontracts are awarded to people from outside the region, leaving the local population behind.
The call for better representation:
Faced with this situation, Nanou MEMBA sent a formal letter to the general director of KICO SA, as well as to the president of the National Assembly, the Prime Minister and the general director of Gecamines, expressing his indignation and his urgent request. He requests the provision of the complete list of partner companies and subcontractors of KICO SA, as well as the list of staff employed with all the necessary details.
Promote local employment in the mining sector:
The case raised by MP Nanou MEMBA highlights a broader problem in the mining sector in the DRC: the marginalization of the local workforce. It is essential to recognize that local people should be the first to benefit from employment and subcontracting opportunities in mining companies. Not only does this contribute to local socio-economic development, but it also strengthens the relationship between businesses and the communities around them.
To promote local employment in the mining sector, it is crucial to put in place policies and regulations that favor the hiring of local labor. This could include quotas for local employees in companies, partnerships with local educational institutions to train the local workforce in required skills, and financial incentives for companies that promote local employment.
Conclusion :
The question of the marginalization of local labor in mining companies in the DRC is a worrying subject. The intervention of MP Nanou MEMBA highlights the importance of promoting local employment in the mining sector to guarantee equitable and sustainable economic development. It is essential that mining companies commit to promoting the hiring and subcontracting of local labor, this helping to strengthen links between companies and local communities and to promote real economic development in the mining regions of the DRC.