Key Aspects of Kivu Mining
Key Locations: Major mining areas are located in the North Kivu territories of Walikale, Masisi, Rutshuru, Lubero, and Beni. In South Kivu, mining occurs in Kalehe, Kabare, Walungu, Mwenga, and Fizi.
Largely informal mining areas in the Masisi hills, which supply a large portion of the DRC’s coltan.
Conflict and Regulation: The industry is deeply intertwined with conflict financing. In response, the DRC government designated several sites as “Red Zones” in early 2025, banning the extraction of minerals in parts of Masisi and Kalehe to stabilize the region.
Environmental Impact: Mining activities, particularly in areas like Kitutu, have resulted in significant river pollution and destruction of local agricultural land.
Major Mineral Deposits
Coltan/Tantalum: Primarily sourced from the Rubaya mines in Masisi, North Kivu.
Gold: Extracted throughout both provinces, with significant activity in South Kivu, including in areas like Mwenga.
Tin/Cassiterite & Wolfram: Extracted in Lubero and Beni territories.
