Challenges Faced by SACIM Agents: Advocating for the Cancellation of Exclusive Diamond Sales – 10 Months of Unpaid Salaries
In a recent open letter addressed to the governor of the Kasaï Oriental province, the civil society of Miabi has called for the replacement of the Anhui Mining Investment Company (SACIM), whose employees have gone without pay for 10 months. The document, obtained on Monday, January 13th by ACTUALITE.CD, reveals that this diamond mining company in Miabi has been grappling with numerous challenges for several months.
The civil society of Miabi links the ordeal of SACIM agents to the lack of liberalization in diamond sales by the company. They argue that a decision made by the Minister of Mines in 2022, through decree no. 0049/CAB.MIN/MINES/01/2022 dated February 22, 2022, restricts diamond sales to a limited team, directly impacting the company’s operations. According to the president of the civil society, Placide Lufuluabo, the limited team is no longer able to handle the purchase of the quantity produced in a timely manner, hindering the company’s functioning.
Furthermore, the situation has led to the inability to allocate 0.3% of its revenue to the specialized organization DOT SACIM for community development projects. As a result, the workers have gone 10 months without pay, and the disbursement of mining royalties to decentralized territorial entities has become irregular.
Impact on Community Development and Workers
This challenging situation not only affects the livelihoods of SACIM agents but also has repercussions on the broader community. The inability to contribute to community development projects through DOT SACIM means that essential initiatives that could benefit the local population are at a standstill. Additionally, the irregular payment of mining royalties to decentralized territorial entities further exacerbates the financial strain on local governments, impacting essential services and infrastructure development in the region.
Call for Action and Path to Resolution
The civil society of Miabi’s plea for the cancellation of the ministerial decree highlights the urgent need to address the systemic issues that have plagued SACIM and its employees. By advocating for a reversal of the exclusive diamond sales restriction, the goal is to provide SACIM with the opportunity to overcome its survival challenges and ensure the well-being of its workers and the broader community. It is imperative that stakeholders at all levels come together to find a sustainable solution that supports the company’s operations while promoting economic development and social welfare in the region.
As we reflect on the plight of SACIM agents and their families who have endured months without pay, it is essential to recognize the human impact of these challenges. Behind the headlines and financial statistics are individuals facing uncertainty and hardship, striving to support themselves and their loved ones. It is a stark reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and economic policies that prioritize the well-being of workers and communities.
Let us not overlook the human stories behind the headlines, but instead, let them serve as a call to action for greater accountability and support for those affected by the ongoing struggles at SACIM. By standing in solidarity with these workers and advocating for positive change, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all.