Boss Mining copper and cobalt project halted
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has halted the Boss Mining copper and cobalt project due to environmental concerns.
The move comes after flooding in March resulted in mine waste being carried into a river and nearby town, causing significant damage. Antoinette N’Samba Kalambayi, the Mines Minister who made the announcement said the suspension reflects a broader effort by the Congolese government to hold mining companies accountable for environmental harm.
Boss Mining copper and cobalt project
Boss Mining copper and cobalt project is owned by Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) and resumed operations in November after being on care and maintenance for over three years. It was projected to produce an annual average of 21,600 tons of copper and 3,600 tons of cobalt hydroxide.
N’Samba Kalambayi has suspended the project for a minimum of three months and has ordered an investigation. The ministry shared her remarks to a Senate commission, indicating the need for possible reparations. N’Samba Kalambayi also pointed out that the environmental damage could have been avoided or minimized if the company had updated its environmental management plan when it reopened.
To resume operations, ERG will have to revise its social and environmental impact studies. Failure to comply may lead to further suspension, as stated by N’Samba Kalambayi during the senate commission meeting. This development reflects the growing emphasis on responsible and sustainable mining practices in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
