The MMG Kinsevere mine pledged US$6 million in support of 20 sustainable community projects in 26 Bukanda sector villages on 6 July 2021. Over the long term, Kinsevere has invested nearly US$20 million in the region between 2006 and 2020.

These ‘Cahier des Charges’ will see economic benefits flow to locally-run businesses as well as improved agriculture, education and public health over the next five years.

Patrick Nkulu, Deputy General Manager Operations; Jinlu Gao, Deputy General Manager Development, and Michel Santos, Social Development Manager, joined with Kipushi Territory administration authorities, parliament delegates and mining and agriculture ministry’s proceeding with the official signing of the Cahier des Charges during a ceremony held in the Bukanda sector in the Haut-Katanga province.

Heading the Kinsevere delegation on behalf of Mr Weiquan Xia – General Manager – Patrick Nkulu stressed the importance of an enduring and respectful partnership between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and China through Kinsevere’s Mine operation.

“Kinsevere is proud to pledge regional economic support while complying with the Mining Code and laws stipulated by the DRC as our host country. Since 2020, MMG has engaged with local communities, keeping them briefed on its operations in discussions facilitated by the Provincial Mine’s Minister, the Bukanda Head of Sector and the Congolese Observatory of the Environment (OCE),” he said, also noting the strategic support of China Minmetals Corporation, MMG’s majority shareholder.

Kinsevere strives to align its community investments with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Following the agreement signing, the Chef de Secteur of Bukanda area will hold evaluation sessions over the next six months to monitor the community projects’ implementation.

Other notable guests attending the ceremony included the Kipushi Administrator of Territory, the Chef de Secteur de Bukanda, the Chefs de Groupement Kasongo and Shindaika, community committee representatives, GIZ, University of Lubumbashi and non-government organisations.

Kinsevere first established an operation in the Bukanda area in 2006. Since then, the mine’s management team has adopted an inclusive approach, prioritising local community needs during ongoing consultations.