RMI Calls for Responsible Sourcing Amid DRC Conflict

The Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) has issued a call for heightened responsible sourcing practices in response to the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). On February 24, 2025, the RMI highlighted the growing risks that the ongoing violence poses to industries reliant on minerals like tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold (3TG), which are essential for sectors including electronics, automotive, and aerospace.

Impact on Key Industries

The DRC is a major global supplier of 3TG minerals, critical to the functioning of modern industries. However, the intensifying conflict, particularly the takeover of mining regions by armed groups such as M23 and the Wazalendo in North and South Kivu, has severely disrupted mining operations. These disruptions pose significant challenges to companies committed to ethical sourcing practices, particularly as the instability has fueled cross-border smuggling and fraud. Such activities complicate efforts to trace mineral origins, further undermining responsible sourcing initiatives.

Challenges in Responsible Sourcing

The volatile situation in eastern DRC presents unique risks for companies sourcing minerals from conflict-affected areas. The presence of armed groups controlling mining regions has raised concerns over the financing of violence and human rights abuses, making it more difficult for industries to maintain ethical supply chains. To mitigate these risks, the RMI emphasizes the need for thorough due diligence. Companies must ensure they have detailed documentation, including full chain of custody records and know-your-counterparty (KYC) information, to meet responsible sourcing standards.

Strategies for Addressing Sourcing Challenges

In response to these challenges, the RMI recommends several strategies for industries to implement in order to uphold responsible sourcing practices:

• Enhanced Due Diligence: Companies must adhere to international guidelines, such as the OECD Guidance on Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. This involves verifying the origin of minerals through clear and verifiable evidence to ensure they do not contribute to armed group financing.
• Collaboration with Initiatives: Partnering with organizations like the Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP) can help businesses assess and improve supply chain transparency. These initiatives offer tools and guidance to identify and mitigate risks, facilitating compliance with responsible sourcing standards.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Adaptation: As the situation in the DRC remains fluid, it is crucial for companies to continuously monitor developments in the region. A proactive, adaptable approach will allow businesses to adjust their sourcing strategies in response to emerging risks while ensuring that they maintain compliance with ethical standards.

By adopting these strategies, industries can better manage the impact of conflict on their supply chains, promote ethical sourcing practices, and support the welfare of communities in mineral-rich regions.

For more information, read the full statement from the RMI here.