The Democratic Republic of Congo has urged member states of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) to translate their commitments into concrete actions for more effective mining governance. This appeal was made during the 10th ministerial meeting in Lusaka, Zambia, according to a communiqué. The meeting was attended by Louis Watum Kabamba, DR Congo's Minister of Mines and president of the ICGLR Ministerial Committee.
Minister Watum emphasized the need to move beyond mere commitments and achieve measurable results in managing the region's mineral resources. He highlighted several priorities, including establishing a credible mineral tracing system, strengthening certification mechanisms, and ensuring reliable information exchange between member states. Effective implementation of adopted resolutions and enhanced control and verification mechanisms to combat illicit mineral supply chains were also stressed.
The minister's push for a more effective governance framework aims to promote responsible exploitation of natural resources and increase transparency in regional supply chains. This involves strengthening control and verification systems to combat illicit mineral trafficking. The ICGLR member states are working together to address these challenges and create a more stable and prosperous region.
In addition to control and compliance issues, Minister Watum underscored the importance of local transformation of natural resources and development of regional value chains. He believes that valorizing mineral resources should stimulate investments, create jobs, and support industrialization in the region. This vision aligns with the ICGLR's goals of promoting economic growth and shared prosperity.
The DR Congo's participation in the 10th ICGLR ministerial meeting demonstrates its commitment to regional consultation mechanisms. The meeting was attended by representatives from ICGLR member states, the Executive Secretary, and partners, including the EU Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA. The discussions focused on mineral tracing, certification, combating illicit circuits, and enhanced cooperation.
The meeting's conclusions are expected to consolidate transparency, mutual trust, and natural resource management for peace and development. The ICGLR brings together 12 member states to address governance, tracing, and illicit exploitation of natural resources. The DR Congo's efforts to promote regional cooperation and responsible resource management reflect its commitment to stability and prosperity in the Great Lakes region.
The vision for more effective mining governance in the Great Lakes region aligns with the priorities of the DR Congo's President, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo. The President has emphasized the need for strengthened regional cooperation to promote responsible natural resource management and harness their potential for development and stability. The ICGLR's work in this area is crucial for achieving these goals.
Key points
- DR Congo calls for concrete actions to improve mining governance in the Great Lakes region
- The 10th ICGLR ministerial meeting aims to consolidate transparency and cooperation among member states
- Regional cooperation is crucial for promoting responsible exploitation of natural resources and stability in the Great Lakes region
