Abstract
The Copper Cobalt Conflict (CCC) Project implemented by PACT International (PACT) and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) aimed to promote peace and security in the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in and around Kolwezi, a mineral-rich area in Katanga Province, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The specific objectives of the project were to: a) promote reconciliation, cooperation and understanding among all stakeholders within the ASM sector, and prevent and mitigate conflicts over access to and use of resources; b) raise awareness and provide technical support to prevent health risks, accidents and injuries at the mines; c) raise awareness and strengthen understanding of the mining code and related legislation; and, d) establish conflict resolution mechanisms to promote peace.The evaluation findings indicate that overall, project activities contributed to achieving project objectives by: a) reducing conflicts at mining sites by supporting the establishment of grassroots cooperatives that organized miners and upheld their rights; b) providing technical support to reduce accidents and injuries at the mines; c) strengthening the capacity of ASM-related institutions to resolve and mitigate conflict through dialogue and peaceful means; and, d) educating stakeholders on their roles, rights and responsibilities under the mining code and legislation.