Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Natural Resource Governance: Report on the 30th ICGLR Regional Committee Meeting

Photo Courtesy Joseph Kiptarus 

The 30th Meeting of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) Regional Committee took place on 28th April 2025 at the Hyatt Regency, Nairobi. The event gathered representatives from member states, partner organizations, and key stakeholders to discuss regional cooperation, natural resource governance, and peace-building. The meeting aimed to enhance collaboration between stakeholders to tackle shared challenges in the region. 

Welcome Remarks

Mr. Abdishakur Hussein, ICGLR National Coordinator, Kenya, opened the meeting by welcoming delegates and thanking the Government of Kenya and partners for their hospitality. He emphasized the importance of addressing the illegal exploitation of natural resources and the role of responsible resource management in achieving long-term peace and development. Hussein urged delegates to work together to improve governance frameworks supporting legal and sustainable resource management.

Chairperson’s Remarks

Mr. Quesnay de Jésus Akabahinga, Chairperson of the ICGLR Regional Committee, delivered an address highlighting the essential role of regional initiatives in advancing peace-building and economic integration across the region. Akabahinga stressed that strong governance and transparent trade mechanisms are crucial to achieving peace and prosperity. He called on member states to demonstrate increased financial commitment to ICGLR initiatives, enabling the organization to drive its mission of fostering peace, security, and shared prosperity.

Executive Secretary’s Address

Ambassador João Samuel Caholo, ICGLR Executive Secretary, provided valuable insights into the region’s challenges related to resource competition and conflict. He discussed the historical links between these factors and expressed concern over the difficulties of coordinating efforts across twelve member states. However, Ambassador Caholo conveyed optimism regarding recent efforts, such as revitalizing the ICGLR Mineral Database, which seeks to track and regulate mineral production and trade. He also advocated for the formalization of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) to ensure legal protection for miners and curb illicit trade.

Official Opening Address

Mr. Harry Kimtai, Principal Secretary, State Department for Mining, Kenya, reaffirmed Kenya's commitment to implementing the guiding principles of the Regional Initiative. He shared updates on Kenya’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal mining, particularly in areas like West Pokot and Marsabit. He emphasized the importance of supporting artisanal miners through cooperative organizations and technical assistance.

Key Regional Tools for Natural Resource Management

The meeting reaffirmed the six pillars of the Regional Initiative on Natural Resources as crucial tools for achieving transparent and sustainable governance:

1. Regional Certification Mechanism (RCM): To validate mineral origin and trade legality.

2. Harmonization of National Legislation: Ensuring consistency of mining laws across member states.

3. Regional Database: Centralizing and managing data on mineral production and trade.

4. Artisanal Gold Mining Strategy: Formalizing small-scale mining activities.

5. Transparency Initiatives (IETI): Promoting accountability in the sector.

6. Whistleblower Protection Mechanism: Protecting individuals who report illegal activities.

Future Meetings and Remarks

The session concluded with a call for accelerated implementation and capacity building across all member states. Cooperation and knowledge-sharing were emphasized as critical for long-term stability and growth in the region. Plans for a Ministerial Meeting in May 2025 were discussed, where resolutions from this meeting would be elevated to the Summit level for formal adoption. Mr. Akabahinga closed the session by urging participants to advocate for these resolutions within their governments to ensure effective implementation.

Conclusion

The 30th ICGLR Regional Committee Meeting reaffirmed the commitment of member states and partners to advancing peace, security, and sustainable development through responsible natural resource governance. Discussions focused on the urgent need for formalizing artisanal mining, enhancing transparency, and strengthening institutional frameworks. The meeting underscored a shared vision for a Great Lakes region where natural resources are used for peace-building, prosperity, and regional integration. As member states and partners build on these foundations, the region is poised to make significant progress toward greater security and shared economic success.