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Mining and Development in the DRC
The DRC is an extraordinary country working to establish stable democratic government and a national platform for economic and social development.
Mining for gold, diamonds, copper and other minerals is central to DRC’s economy and covers a diverse sector from artisanal and small scale ‘creuseurs’ (informal miners) to large scale, world-class mines.
Historically, mining has been both an engine for wealth creation and development, and a funding source for conflict. In the south – or ‘copperbelt’ – mining for copper and cobalt is the primary focus and the most significant source of tax revenue.
MMG Kinsevere
MMG owns and operates the Kinsevere copper mine located approximately 35 kilometres from Lubumbashi – the second largest city in the DRC.
There are around 26 communities near the mine, and together with local leaders and our partners we deliver programs supporting health, education, poverty alleviation and the empowerment of women and girls.
The role of farming in delivering progress
Aside from mining, farming and agriculture are the largest local industries, and food security is a priority. MMG believes investing in agricultural capacity is an important way to improve local livelihoods and provide sustained benefits, well beyond the mine’s life.
We do this via the Ubuntu Farm – purchased by MMG in 2015, and developing into a centre of agricultural excellence – and the Regional Farmers’ Assistance Program. Local farmers have access to a micro-credit seed program, large quantities of fertiliser, and training to ensure sustainable benefits for the community beyond the mine’s lifecycle.
Community investment
Beyond farming, we contribute directly to community development through local and regional infrastructure upgrades including improved roads. Ongoing benefits also flow from a range of community support programs including: constructing five new schools catering to more than 3,000 students; a new health clinic; and establishing 43 bores to provide access to clean drinking water.