Kolwezi Economic Development and Governance Transition Strategy: Final Report

In April 2006, violent clashes relating to artisinal mining resulted in four deaths. In response to this incident and the general increase in tensions and conflicts over resource access and trade, the former Vice-Governor of Katanga, His Excellency Chikex Diemu, requested assistance. Pact, with private mining company support, solicited support for a multi-donor approach to address the conflict in Kolwezi resulting from the tension between the artisanal and large-scale mining sectors and to present a plan for a peaceful economic development. 

Research Results

Following eight months of research and stakeholder engagement, a strategy has been developed for a peaceful transition to broad-based economic development and improved governance in Kolwezi and the surrounding area. The research reports are available in their entirety as an annex to this document. The strategy acknowledges the multi-faceted nature of the issue and the activities are proposed accordingly, including: economic development, governance promotion, alternative livelihoods development, training and employment, promotion of a safe and regulated artisanal mining sector, protection and promotion of vulnerable groups such as women and children, and focused infrastructure development. 

Development and Governance Road Map

Based on the research results, the following vision statement was identified:

"By 2015, Kolwezi and the surrounding area are recognized for legal, efficient and responsible large and small-scale mining, mineral processing and trading, which generate a diversified and sustainable economy with equitable opportunities and benefits to the population at large. Social development is coordinated to deliver benefits beyond concessions, and is contributed to by a wide variety of stakeholders with a strong lead role played by the government and effective use of mining royalties."