Gold Sourcing in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Gold Supply from Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of Africa’s most important gold-producing countries, with vast geological potential and long-established artisanal and small-scale mining activity. Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd sources gold from the DRC through a structured, responsible, and compliance-focused approach designed to meet international trade standards.
Our role is to connect verified gold production from Congo with legitimate international buyers while ensuring transparency, traceability, and regulatory compliance at every stage of the supply chain.
Overview of Gold Mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Gold mining in the DRC is dominated by artisanal and small-scale mining, particularly in the eastern and north-eastern regions of the country. These areas are geologically rich and have produced gold for generations through river-based alluvial mining and shallow hard-rock operations.
The majority of gold produced in Congo is recovered manually by local miners using traditional techniques. While this creates economic opportunities for local communities, it also requires strong oversight to ensure that gold entering the international market is sourced legally and responsibly.
Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd operates within this context by working only with screened suppliers and applying strict due diligence controls to ensure that Congolese gold traded through our company meets international expectations.
Key Gold-Producing Provinces in the DRC
Ituri Province
Ituri is one of the most productive gold regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The province is known for extensive alluvial gold deposits and active artisanal mining communities.
Gold sourced from Ituri is typically supplied in alluvial form or as gold dust. The region’s geology produces gold with strong refining characteristics, making it attractive to international refineries.
North Kivu Province
North Kivu hosts significant artisanal gold activity, particularly in rural mining zones. Gold from this region is mainly alluvial and ASM-sourced.
Due to the region’s sensitivity, enhanced due diligence is applied. Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd sources gold from North Kivu only through vetted channels with clear documentation and verified transport routes.
South Kivu Province
South Kivu is another historically significant gold-producing province. Gold is recovered from river systems and shallow underground workings.
Gold from South Kivu is typically supplied as gold dust or alluvial gold. Our sourcing approach here prioritises traceability and compliance verification before any transaction is approved.
Maniema Province
Maniema is a less-publicised but important gold-producing province. The region has extensive artisanal mining activity and relatively stable production volumes.
Gold from Maniema is primarily alluvial and is valued for its consistent quality. Our company works with licensed suppliers operating within approved mining zones.
Haut-Uele Province
Haut-Uele, located in north-eastern Congo, is known for both artisanal and semi-industrial gold mining. The province produces high-quality gold and is considered one of the more promising regions for long-term supply.
Gold sourced from Haut-Uele is typically supplied as alluvial gold or gold dust and is suitable for refining and doré production.
Types of Gold Sourced from the DRC
Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd sources several categories of gold from the Democratic Republic of Congo, depending on availability and buyer requirements.
Alluvial Gold
Alluvial gold is recovered from riverbeds and surface deposits. It is supplied in nugget or flake form and typically has strong geological purity after basic washing.
Gold Dust and Concentrate
Gold dust is produced from artisanal mining operations and small processing sites. This form is suitable for buyers with refining capacity or partner refineries.
Artisanal Gold for Doré Production
In some cases, Congolese gold is aggregated and processed into doré bars through approved facilities outside the mining site, subject to legal authorisation.
Compliance, Due Diligence, and Traceability
Gold sourcing in the DRC requires a high level of diligence. Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd applies strict compliance procedures aligned with international best practices.
Our due diligence process includes supplier identity verification, licence and permit checks, assessment of mining location risk, and transaction-level documentation review.
We align our approach with OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains and apply enhanced controls in sensitive regions.
Gold is only accepted into our supply chain once its origin, legality, and transport route are verified.
Testing, Assay, and Documentation
All gold sourced from the DRC is subjected to independent assay testing to confirm purity and composition.
Each shipment is supported by a documentation package that includes assay certificates, certificates of origin, export permits, commercial invoices, and customs records.
This documentation ensures transparency and facilitates smooth clearance at international refineries and buyer destinations.
Why International Buyers Source Gold from Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo offers significant advantages to international gold buyers.
The country’s geology produces gold with strong refining characteristics and consistent recovery potential. Production volumes from artisanal mining remain substantial, offering long-term supply opportunities.
When sourced responsibly and with proper compliance controls, Congolese gold is a valuable input for refineries and institutional buyers seeking African-origin material.
Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd provides buyers with access to this supply while managing risk, compliance, and documentation requirements.
Our Role as a Responsible Intermediary
We act as a professional intermediary between Congolese producers and international markets.
Our presence in the region allows us to manage sourcing responsibly, support transparency, and ensure that gold entering global supply chains meets ethical and legal expectations.
By combining regional knowledge with international standards, we create value for both producers and buyers.
Trade Inquiries
We work with qualified international buyers, refineries, and institutional partners seeking responsibly sourced gold from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
For sourcing inquiries, documentation requirements, or partnership discussions, please contact Great Lakes Gold Origins Ltd directly.