The Democratic Republic of Congo has suspended mining activities in parts of the conflict-hit South Kivu province for three months, escalating efforts to curb illegal mineral exploitation and cut off suspected funding channels for armed groups operating in the east.
A directive issued by the country’s mines ministry and signed by Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba said the suspension would affect the territories of Mwenga and Shabunda, two areas known for significant artisanal mining activity.
The move comes amid growing concern over illicit mining networks in eastern Congo, where valuable minerals such as gold, cassiterite and coltan are frequently extracted outside formal regulatory systems.
According to the May 22 directive, authorities will use the suspension period to conduct a special inspection mission led by the General Inspectorate of Mines. The operation is expected to verify the legality of mining activities and identify operators accused of bypassing state regulations.
The Congolese government says the measure is aimed at reducing mining fraud and the illegal exploitation of ores, which officials believe continue to undermine state revenues and fuel insecurity in the region.
