South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in minerals like gold, tin, copper, and cobalt. Authorities have previously accused several firms of illegal mining, chemical dumping, and worker exploitation.

In July, Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki suspended all mining to restore order. The ban was partially lifted in August for gold extraction, with ongoing consultations in the sector.

A preliminary investigation found over 550 of nearly 650 mining operators lacked proper mining permits. The governor has now allowed all mining activities to resume while the investigation continues.