No Congo = No Resources
The crisis we face is intimately tied to the relentless pursuit of critical minerals, a pursuit in which the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) holds an astonishing $24 trillion in untapped deposits. Among these minerals are coltan, cobalt, and lithium—essential components as the world moves towards a green transition. However, this pursuit has created a complex web of challenges, including human rights abuses, environmental degradation, and economic exploitation. Panzi Foundation recognizes the urgency of addressing these issues and has developed a multifaceted approach to tackle them head-on. Through a pyramidal strategy encompassing advocacy, policy change, and community engagement, Panzi Foundation is working tirelessly to address the root causes of this crisis and build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
It is no coincidence that the term “smartphone” was coined in 1997, immediately preceding the start of the Second Congo War – also known as Africa’s World War– in 1998.
ADVOCACY
Advocacy to end the conflict in DRC.
Peace is possible. Our advocacy efforts are based on the urgent need for change in global economic systems. The lack of traceability in the industry means we cannot ensure conflict-free sources or uncontaminated supply chains, holding every actor in these conflict-supply chains accountable. The world relies on Congo, which possesses 80% of the global coltan reserves and 63% of the cobalt reserves. While legal and political reforms take time, the earth and its people cannot afford to wait. Change is critical.
At Panzi, we advocate for the elimination of conflict through decisive actions:
- Sanctions and Accountability: Any actor or government directly supporting M23 and other armed groups in the DRC should face sanctions and be required to withdraw their support.
- Changing Narratives: We must shift the narrative to reduce the stigma on Congolese ASM communities and instead focus on the few individuals who profit from the conflict.
- Speak the Truth, Demand the Truth: As advocates and fellow humans, we deserve transparency. Resources are invested in data collection, requiring Congolese communities to disclose their experiences. To avoid reinforcing another form of extraction, the same should be demanded of every actor in the conflict-supply chain. This is not just a Congolese problem.
Join us in demanding sanctions, accountability, and the truth.
POLICY CHANGE
Collaboration with stakeholders to influence legislation and policy changes.
We collaborate with stakeholders to influence internal policies & with law and policy-makers to reform policies and improve the regulatory frameworks when it comes to supply chains to eliminate conflict-supply-chains.
Key policy changes we need to push for in 2024:
- Regional Tax Reform: Align export taxes for 3TGs (conflict minerals) in Congo and neighboring countries.
- Traceability Frameworks: Develop robust frameworks for traceability initiatives.
- Transparency Regulations: Enhance regulatory frameworks to ensure greater transparency.
- Gold Origin Standards: Implement stricter standards for the origin of gold.
- Redefinition of Gold: Change the definition of gold to prevent green-washing.
“As a Congolese jeweler and survivor of sexual violence, I won’t ever buy a stone that I can’t trace. I cannot afford it…..”
– Ms. M, Survivor
Community Development
Our strategy focuses on transformative programs to make mining communities safer, more sustainable, and economically stable. Here’s our comprehensive approach to addressing conflict minerals through community development:
- Access to sexual and reproductive health and rights
- Access to education
- Training in responsible natural resource management (engaging in risks identification, mitigation and elimination)
- Training in mineral transformation (jewelry-making)
By implementing these initiatives, we aim to build resilient communities that are equipped to manage their resources responsibly and sustainably, while also improving their overall quality of life. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of mining are shared more equitably and that the negative impacts are minimized.
Help us demand that any initiative and money poured into congo (as reparation) takes the form of investment into mining communities and their sustainable development. Value addition is a particularly important component to demand.
Together we can
end this crisis.
Join us as we help Congolese survivors reclaim their lives.