World Bank to help Congo Develop its Mining Sector

Sylvie Dosso Kouame, an official of the World Bank revealed that the World Bank is set to support the Republic of Congo in the development of the mining sector in an effort to diversify the economy. She stated: "It is an honour to have this opportunity to reaffirm the bank's willingness to support the Republic of Congo in its efforts to diversify its economy and manage its natural resources. The statement was made in Brazzaville at the opening of the first international conference on mines in Congo according to NAN.

"The government's decision to identify the mining sector as a priority sector is a very important one because the Republic of Congo can effectively become a major power in the mining industry both on the African and world stage and significantly stimulate the non-petroleum economy," she said. She spoke at a two-day conference organised by the Republic of Congo's Mines ministry in partnership with Ametrade Ltd., to bring together participants from Africa and elsewhere to promote opportunities in the Congolese mining sector.

She further opined that the eventual strategy of promoting the mining sector would contribute towards development and reduce poverty in the country. Kouame urged the Congolese government to revise its legal and taxation laws on the mining sector. According to her, this would help to consolidate the progress achieved since the coming into force of the mining code in 2005. The World Bank's official emphasise on the need for the state to have the necessary expertise when negotiating contracts with mining companies.

The World Bank has been accused of not being fair over the years when it comes to African matters. It has best served the interests of the foreign powers seeking to milk and suck Africa dry. The most worrisome and mind-boggling is that African leaders and policy-makers rush to those whose policies have not benefited any country on the continent beginning from the notorious structural adjustment programme of the 80s to the deregulation policy of the present era. Its policies have never suited Africa yet Africans kowtow to allow more.