The complexiTy of resource governance in a conTexT of sTaTe ... - Ipis

The complexity of resource governance in a context of state fragility: An analysis of the mining sector in the Kivu hinterlands
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2.4 Presence of armed groups and human rights violations
The security situation in Maniema province is calm in comparison to the Kivu provinces. In
three territories (Lubutu, Punia and Kabambare), however, there are reports of rebel incursions,
extortion and armed confrontations, notably in eastern sectors near the Kivu border. Furthermore,
community conflicts over land exist in other territories, for example Pangi and Kailo. 129 Although
the general security situation is calm, and in spite of the existence of mining areas where mineral
exploitation seems to be free from militarisation, natural resources represent a motivating factor
for armed groups in Maniema.
In the paragraphs below, a few cases illustrating involvement in Maniema’s mining sector by
armed units – including both rebel groups and FARDC – will be discussed. These cases are not
an exhaustive list of the province’s militarised mining zones, but are some striking examples that
help to illuminate the problem. 130
Kasese
Kasese is located in the centre of Babira Bakwame sector, Punia territory, an area well-known
for its cassiterite production. Kasese used to be an important rice and palm-oil producer, but
agricultural activities have ceased and have been replaced by artisanal mining. 131 Nowadays, all
provisions have to be imported from the Kivu provinces. Since the sector can only be reached on
foot or by plane, these are flown in.
Access to Kasese’s natural resources is an important factor fuelling local conflict and has resulted
in a number of security incidents. Local conflict derives from ethnic tension between the BaKwame
and BaBira peoples. The BaKwame are a minority group which is well-represented in two of the
sector’s six collectivities, including Kasese town, where they constitute the majority. BaKwame are
considered the customary holders of land titles, while the BaBira, on the other hand, are seen as
newcomers even though they constitute the majority in the sector as a whole. They also have the
most administrative power, and consequently have more influence on the distribution of mining
titles. This is a significant source of frustration for the BaKwame, who see it as an infringement
of their traditional rights. This discord could be exploited by armed factions present in the area.
It must be emphasised that the presence of armed groups concerns only incursions, as they have no
permanent bases in Babira Bakwame sector. The Mayi Mayi Simba, from Walikale territory – not
to be confused with General Mando’s Mayi Mayi Simba who operate in Lubutu territory – are
attracted by Kasese’s natural resources and every few months there are confrontations between
them and the FARDC. In July 2010, for example, the latter clashed with the Mayi Mayi Simba over
the mining sites of Pumuzika and Ujumo, west of Kasese, where the rebels tried to seize control. 132
The FARDC, which is supposed to protect the population and consolidate security, often does the
opposite. Since the Kimia II military operations, there is a larger FARDC presence and the soldiers
regularly seek to gain control of mining sites and to loot from the local population. In May 2010,
for example, FARDC elements under the command of Eric Malonga are said to have pillaged 400
129 IPIS, unpublished UN Environmental Programme commissioned report 2010.
130 IPIS, unpublished UN Environmental Programme commissioned report, 2010.
131 The two consecutive Congolese wars have had a devastating effect on Maniema’s agricultural sector. Insecurity in the countryside caused
a population movement towards the cities, leading to a loss of workforce. This was further reinforced when people turned to mineral
exploitation in the hope of making rapid profits. Insecurity and poor road conditions stopped farmers who remained in the country from
reaching the markets. Furthermore, there was a lack of adequate farming equipment, either because it was stolen or because it was
abandoned by farmers when they fled. Most of these effects persist to the present day. Moreover, in those areas where mining activity is
booming, and because the mineral wealth attracts immigrants, the demand for food (and agricultural products in general) rises at the
same time as agricultural production declines, exacerbating shortages and pushing up prices. (Source: IPIS, unpublished United Nations
Environmental Programme commissioned report, 2010.)
132 Confidential written UN source.