ITSCI welcomes the peace agreement signed on Friday 27th June 2025, between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda which represents a significant milestone in efforts to de-escalate the conflict in eastern DRC.
The agreement, which outlines the establishment of a joint security coordination mechanism, also includes commitments to regional economic integration and the responsible development of mineral supply chains.
With improved security conditions, ITSCI has resumed activities in Walikale territory, North Kivu Province, last month. We hope the peace deal will provide a renewed opportunity to strengthen collaboration with local authorities, mining cooperatives, and civil society, and to restart operations in other areas. These efforts are essential to supporting the communities who rely on artisanal and small-scale mining for their livelihoods.
The agreement presents an opportunity for enhanced regional cooperation which ITSCI welcomes and supports. As a facilitation initiative fully aligned with the OECD Due Diligence Guidance, we remain committed to supporting responsible sourcing practices that contribute to stability, transparency, and economic development in conflict-affected and high-risk areas.
Our long-standing experience in the region demonstrates that inclusive dialogue and local ownership are powerful tools for peace, with a track record of conflict resolution, voluntary departure of non-state armed groups from 3T mines, and reduced violence. ITSCI will continue to support such efforts, which align with the spirit of regional reconciliation.
Ongoing underlying challenges, including weak governance structures and limited institutional capacity, must continue to be tackled. Addressing these issues is crucial for frameworks to deliver lasting impact.
ITSCI will continue to closely monitor the situation on the ground, while continuing our work with local partners to strengthen systems, build capacity, and promote inclusive mining practices.
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Previous publications on this topic
- ITSCI resumes activities in Walikale territory, North Kivu Province, DRC (June 2025)
- Recent Developments in North and South Kivu, DRC (April 2025)
- ITSCI statement on the recent European Council sanctions (March 2025)
- Update on the situation in North and South Kivu, DRC (February 2025)
- ITSCI reports that M23 have taken possession of an ITSCI office and other equipment and condemns all illegal actions by the non-state armed group (February 2025)
- ITSCI clarifies the role of its 3T traceability and due diligence Programme (February 2025)
- Escalating security situation in North and South Kivu (January 2025)
- ITSCI update on the security situation in North Kivu Province (January 2025)
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