DR Congo uncovers $20B in payments to ineligible mining suppliers
The country is courting new mining investment and seeks to ensure that Congolese partners have a genuine stake in the businesses supplying its mines.
DR Congo has discovered that fourteen major mining companies paid over $20 billion to ineligible subcontractors between 2020 and 2025, according to the country's subcontracting regulator. This revelation has prompted the regulator to plan more rigorous inspections to address violations of subcontracting rules. Glencore, Ivanhoe Mines, and Sicomines are among the companies affected, with Glencore and Sicomines declining to comment.
The regulator aims to ensure Congolese ownership and control in mining businesses, aligning with the country's laws. Beleshayi, head of the regulator, has ordered the termination of about 1,800 contracts with suppliers lacking valid registration certificates. The regulator's move comes as DR Congo seeks new mining investments, including from the US, and strives to ensure genuine Congolese ownership and participation in mining businesses.
Limited financing and technical skills hinder Congolese suppliers from handling major contracts, according to researcher Fridolin Kimonge. Beleshayi expects American suppliers to accompany new US mining investments and work alongside Congolese partners, potentially putting pressure on existing suppliers to comply with regulations.
Critics argue that transparency alone does not guarantee fair contracts, and the regulator should publish real owners and their ties to officials to ensure benefits for ordinary Congolese.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
