Category: Ecology

Gold mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo is booming, attracting the interest of international investors. Gold prices are seeing a significant rise in international markets, with a projection of USD 62.19 per gram. The DRC has the potential to export more than 60 tonnes of gold per year, which would generate significant revenue for the country. This upward price trend strengthens the DRC’s position as a country rich in natural resources and opens new opportunities for economic growth. The DRC thus confirms its position as a major player on the international market for natural resources.

Prices for metals such as copper, cobalt, zinc, tin, gold and silver are on the rise this week in international markets. According to projections by the National Commission of Mercurial Prices of the Ministry of Foreign Trade of the DRC, these increases offer new prospects for players in the mining industry. Copper is expected to rise slightly, while cobalt, considered a key mineral in the energy transition, is also trending up. Zinc, tin and gold are seeing their prices rise, reflecting growing demand. Only tantalum is experiencing a drop in price. These developments offer opportunities for the Congolese economy and its mining sector.

The General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) controls the management of public funds related to the Games of La Francophonie in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The IGF said it was satisfied with the financial management and paid tribute to the Congolese President and the National Director for the success of the event. Currently, the IGF and the Steering Committee are making an inventory of gaming assets which will then be allocated to the various State services. This approach demonstrates the authorities’ desire to ensure transparent management of public funds. The Francophonie Games were a success and contributed to the economic development of the country. The IGF’s mission strengthens the confidence of financial players in the country.

Sonangol, Angola’s state-owned oil company, plans to relaunch oil exploration in the KON 11 block, located in the Kwanza basin. With approximately 65 million barrels of unproduced oil resources, this area has promising economic potential. Sonangol and its partners intend to drill a first well in the KON 11 block, followed by appraisal work and geological and geophysical studies. This initiative could reverse the decline in Angolan oil production and boost the country’s oil industry.

The Lokando reference health center, in the Maniema province of the DRC, is facing a critical shortage of medicines. The consequences are dramatic for patients, who are sometimes forced to make long journeys on dilapidated roads to receive care, and some die along the way. Doctor Gervais Djela Luka, director of the center, appeals to the authorities and partners to resolve this catastrophic situation. He also highlights the importance of road maintenance to facilitate access to health care. It is crucial that action is taken quickly to address this shortage of medicines and guarantee the fundamental right to health for all. Coordination between the government, health partners and local stakeholders is necessary to ensure a regular supply of medicines and improve road infrastructure. The health of citizens must remain an absolute priority.

In this article extract entitled “Support for local agriculture: TFM receives a large batch of agricultural inputs for the 2023-2024 agricultural campaign”, we learn that the mining company Tenke Fungurume Mining (TFM) is actively committed to support local agriculture. TFM recently received a large batch of NPK 17-17-17 agricultural inputs for distribution to growers grouped into agricultural cooperatives. The local development committees have validated the terms of distribution, which provide for the allocation of agricultural land to people affected by the project. In addition, TFM will offer technical and strategic support to agricultural cooperatives, as well as the use of eight new tractors to facilitate plowing work. Since 2008, TFM has set up the “Cord Credit” program which allows growers to reimburse part of the agricultural inputs received with their corn harvest. In conclusion, the receipt of these agricultural inputs demonstrates TFM’s commitment to local agriculture and should contribute to an abundant harvest and the development of local communities.

Torrential rains hit Spain this weekend, leaving two people dead and another missing. These bad weather caused significant material damage and disrupted travel. Madrid and Castile-La Mancha are the most affected regions, with roads cut and houses flooded. Authorities issued an alert in seven regions of the country and sent a warning message to residents of Madrid. Despite some criticism, it is crucial to be able to communicate quickly with the population in the event of a natural disaster. Let’s hope for a rapid improvement in the situation and remain in solidarity with those affected.

Air conditioning has become essential for many homes, but its excessive use contributes to pollution and global warming. The fluorinated refrigerants it uses are particularly harmful to the environment. Efforts are being made to develop more environmentally friendly air conditioning, in particular through technologies using less energy and natural refrigerants. It is also important to rethink the way we live and use air conditioning, adopting simple gestures and promoting alternative solutions. Together we can make air conditioning more environmentally friendly.