• DRC orders tighter environmental oversight of mining sector
• Task force to improve coordination after inspections found compliance failures
• Reforms linked to IMF programme on environmental safeguards

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced tighter environmental oversight of its mining sector. Minutes from the Feb. 27, 2026 Council of Ministers meeting show that the environment and mines ministers have been instructed to set up a joint expert task force. The body will propose measures to improve coordination and ensure consistent enforcement across oversight agencies.

The initiative aims to address deficiencies identified during recent inspections and strengthen environmental monitoring. Teams deployed to Lualaba and Haut-Katanga reported serious compliance failures at several companies, as well as systemic weaknesses in oversight structures, including shortcomings within technical departments responsible for supervision.

The move forms part of commitments made by the DRC to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) of its three-year programme launched in 2025. An IMF report published in January 2026 said the government must reinforce environmental and social safeguards in the mining sector to better manage its impact on forests and vulnerable communities. Planned reforms include strengthening the legal framework, publishing environmental and social impact assessments, and conducting ex-post environmental audits of mining projects.

On Jan. 30, the Ministry of Mines asked companies to submit proof of financial guarantees covering environmental rehabilitation by Feb. 16, 2026. That deadline has now passed, and it remains unclear whether all affected companies have complied.

 Boaz Kabeya, with Bankable