DRC National Assembly Questions Mines Minister on Military Deployment at Mining Sites

Kinshasa - December 18, 2025 - The National Assembly’s Defense and Security Committee summoned Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba to answer questions regarding the deployment of military personnel at mining sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Parliamentarians expressed concern over the alleged involvement of some FARDC members in illegal mining activities, which they say contributes to ongoing insecurity in the eastern provinces.

Minister Watum requested an additional 48 hours to prepare comprehensive responses, highlighting the sensitivity of the issue.

The Committee also questioned Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba Likunde on the regularity of special bonuses for military personnel, especially amid the recent surge of violence in North Kivu and South Kivu.

According to Carly Nzanzu, the Commission’s first vice-president, all answers were provided in a closed session, and the conclusions will be transmitted to the plenary assembly. Hearings with other government members are expected to continue in the coming days.