The governor of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo announced on Friday the suspension of all mining activities in the troubled region.
He also directed companies and operators to vacate the mining sites immediately.
In a statement, Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki revealed that mining activities have been suspended indefinitely due to “disruptions caused by mining operators”, although he did not elaborate further.
He added, “All companies, businesses, and cooperatives must vacate the sites and operating locations within 72 hours
Artisanal miners, who are the leading producers of metals such as gold and tin in the region, will be severely impacted by this decision.
Jean Pierre Okenda, a governance analyst in Congo’s extractive sector, criticized the decision as “illegal and an abuse of power”, urging Congo’s mines minister to urgently seek the removal of the ban.
The governor also announced a July 30 meeting with mining operators to review the situation and explore potential solutions.
Innocent Watuta Ibungu, a mining operator, warned that banning artisanal mining would have severe repercussions for the entire province, emphasizing that this activity is crucial for livelihoods and local economies.
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