The situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to be a serious matter of concern. ITSCI deeply regrets the continued escalation of violence and strongly condemns all illegal actions by non-state armed group M23 and human rights abuses by conflicting parties. As stated in our last update, the current situation, including suspension of ITSCI activities in some territories of North and South Kivu, DRC, resulted in increased risks of cross-border fraud to neighbouring areas, including Rwanda.
We note the recent European Council sanction of Mr Francis Kamanzi, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) and are currently reviewing the impact of this in regard to ITSCI’s activities and supply chains overall. We have actively reached out to key third parties to request views and input to assist us in determining any necessary actions.
ITSCI continues to make good faith and risk-based efforts to increase our checks and control mechanisms in ITSCI-monitored supply chains in Rwanda. We are closely scrutinising relevant supply chain actor activities in Rwanda stressing that heightened awareness and thorough due diligence is necessary in proportion to the high-risk level. These controls are ongoing and have resulted in the suspension of one Rwandan exporter from ITSCI membership. We also emphasise that not all 3T operators in Rwanda – whether mine company, exporters or smelters – participate in ITSCI.
We welcome the 18th March 2025 statement by the Heads of State of each of the DRC and Rwanda reaffirming the commitment of all parties to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. We express our unwavering support for the local population and our field teams. We continue to take appropriate mitigation measures and engage with both local and international stakeholders as the situation develops.
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Anyone in the region can provide evidence or information on risks directly or via our whistleblowing mechanism. ITSCI whistleblowing procedure and contacts are available online www.itsci.org/contact/. The confidential ITSCI whistleblowing address is [email protected].
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