The United States hit Gasabo Gold Refinery in Rwanda with sanctions,along with two top executives,over alleged gold smuggling from conflict zones in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Announced Thursday,the sanctions target chairman Jean Malic Kalima and general manager Bosco Kayobotsi. They're accused of working with M23 rebel group. This group holds territory in eastern DRC,areas rich in gold and coltan, key for electronics.
At least 60 kilograms of gold,worth millions,were smuggled from DRC to Gasabo in early 2026. U.S. also points fingers at Rwandan officials and military for overseeing this operation. Sanctions freeze any U.S.-held assets of refinery and executives,while barring Americans from doing business with them.
“The United States will not allow rogue groups to profit from the illicit mineral trade and destabilize region,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. “The Democratic Republic of Congo's mineral wealth rightfully belongs to the Congolese people.”
Similar sanctions from European Union hit Gasabo last year for exploiting DRC's conflict. U.S. now extends sanctions to three Kalima-controlled mining firms: Bugambira Mines, Wolfram Mining and Processing, and Rwinkwavu Mining Corporation. Rwandan government denies backing M23,calling past sanctions unfair .
Sanctions follow U.S.-brokered peace deal in December,meant to quell eastern DRC conflict and create transparent minerals sector. Yet fighting goes on . Summit with DRC,Rwanda,and U.S. officials raised alarms over violence in the region.
As events develop,U.S. aims to choke off illicit mineral trade fueling central Africa's instability. Sanctions are part of broader push to hold profiteers accountable. U.S. hopes this will deter exploitation and encourage investment in stable mining sector in DRC . Will it work…?
