The Kasaï Central provincial assembly has decided to suspend all mining activities in Luiza Territory, effective immediately. This decision was made during a plenary session held on November 4, 2026, in the provincial capital. The suspension was prompted by an investigation conducted by an ad hoc commission in May 2026, which uncovered grave irregularities in the local mining sector.
The investigation revealed that the mining activities were benefiting a small circle of private interests, while the local communities received minimal benefits. The probe also found evidence of illicit and anarchic exploitation of minerals, as well as the presence of fictitious structures. The assembly's decision applies to both national and foreign mining operators, cooperatives, and individuals involved in the activities.
The suspension aims to put an end to the denounced practices in the mining sector and promote better protection of natural resources for the benefit of the local population. The assembly's move is seen as a first step towards addressing the issues, but its effectiveness will depend on its implementation and the ability of institutions to enforce the law without distinction.
The decision has been welcomed by some as a step towards promoting transparency and accountability in the mining sector. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the local economy and the livelihoods of those employed in the mining industry. The provincial authorities will need to balance the need to regulate the sector with the need to protect the interests of local communities.
The Kasaï Central provincial assembly's decision is part of a broader effort to promote good governance and transparency in the region. The province has been facing challenges related to the exploitation of natural resources, and the assembly's move is seen as a step towards addressing these issues. The suspension of mining activities in Luiza Territory is expected to have significant implications for the local economy and the mining sector as a whole.
The implementation of the suspension will be closely monitored by local communities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The provincial authorities will need to ensure that the decision is enforced effectively and that the interests of all parties are taken into account. The Kasaï Central provincial assembly's decision is a significant development in the region, and its impact will be closely watched in the coming weeks and months.
The provincial government has urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the implementation of the suspension and to support efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the mining sector. The decision is seen as a step towards promoting sustainable development and ensuring that the region's natural resources are managed in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Key points
- The Kasaï Central provincial assembly has suspended all mining activities in Luiza Territory due to irregularities and exploitation of natural resources.
- The suspension aims to promote transparency and accountability in the mining sector and protect the interests of local communities.
- The implementation of the suspension will be closely monitored by local communities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
