The International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) has called for strict auditing of mineral supply chains to prevent illicit minerals from entering the formal market and strengthen the credibility of the regional certification mechanism. Speaking at the close of…

The International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) has called for strict auditing of mineral supply chains to prevent illicit minerals from entering the formal market and strengthen the credibility of the regional certification mechanism.

Speaking at the close of the 30th Audit Committee meeting in Lusaka, Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary, Hapenga Kabeta said the committee plays a critical role in authenticating mineral certificates and ensuring that minerals traded across the region are legally sourced.

Dr Kabeta was speaking in a speech read for him by Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Director Artisanal Small Scale Mining, Brighton Kateka.

Dr Kabeta urged auditors to thoroughly examine every stage of mineral production and transportation, emphasising that no individual or player in the mineral supply chain should be exempted from scrutiny.

“Promoting responsible mining is important because it will help our minerals to earn more, no one is exempted from scrutiny,” Dr Kabeta said.

And ICGLR Deputy Executive Secretary, Yassir Mohammed said that mineral resources should serve as catalysts for peace, prosperity and development rather than sources of conflict.

Ambassador Mohammed has called on member states to strengthen regional cooperation, promote responsible mineral sourcing and support artisanal and small-scale miners.

Meanwhile, Zambia’s ICGLR National Coordinator, Christopher Sitwala noted that mining remains a government priority over the next five years.

“With increased investment in brownfield and greenfield projects, streamlined licensing processes and formalisation of artisanal and small-scale mining operations,” Mr Sitwala said.

Mr Sitwala added that government remains committed to ensuring that mining activities are legal, formal, commercially viable and safe while curbing illegal exploitation of natural resources.

Meanwhile, ICGLR committee Chairperson, Philiph Kiplangat said the three-day meeting has provided an opportunity to examine third-party audit reports, assess progress among member states and identify areas requiring improvement.

Engineer Kiplangat said that the effectiveness of the certification mechanism depends on translating audit findings into practical improvements on the ground.

The three-day meeting brought together representatives of ICGLR member states and cooperating partners, including GIZ and IMPACT, in efforts to improve accountability and transparency in the regional mineral trade.