INTRODUCTION:
The China Global South Project (CGSP) is looking for individuals (journalists, researchers, and experts) and organizations motivated and passionate about the copper and cobalt mining industry in the Democratic Republic of Congo. CGSP recently carried out research on the stakeholders in the DRC’s copper and cobalt sector. The results of this research have been compiled in a new interactive map of the copper and cobalt industry in the DRC.
This interactive map details all major industrial and artisanal mines, processing entities and provides a full overview of export data.
CGSP is looking for contributions in the form of analyses, reports, and impact stories that address issues related to the Congolese mining sector. The aim is to enlighten and raise awareness of these issues.
As China is the most prominent player in this sector, it has been central to the research that has been carried out. China’s growing presence and influence in this sector are widely debated by experts, policy-makers, and NGOs at both national and international levels.
While its impact on Congolese mining development is undeniable, it is essential to examine the other social, environmental, and economic aspects and consequences of its presence and to make the voices of those who are impacted, both positively and negatively, heard.
However, since China is not the only player in this sector, it is essential not to lose sight of the role and influence of other players, as well as their impact on mining activity in the D. R. Congo. The aim is to provide an objective, factual overview of the sector as a whole.
The CGSP intends to publish ten (10) articles on topics around the themes below. The general topics are derived from the overall observations and results of our research.
- Industrial activities: Examine and analyze the industrial landscape of Chinese companies in the copper and cobalt sector. What is their nature, size, and business model?
- Artisanal activities: Discover and analyze the role of the various stakeholders in the supply chain of artisanal mining activities.
- Environmental and social impact: Examine the environmental and social impact of the copper and cobalt industry. Often criticized for its environmental impact, the mining industry also contributes to social and human development, notably through social impact actions in communities. What can we learn from this? Are there experiences to share and lessons to learn?
There are also the issues of air and water pollution, land expropriation, treatment of employees, and so on. Highlight the challenges faced by local communities, the measures taken by governments to combat pollution, and the responses of the mining companies concerned.
WHO CAN APPLY?
If you are a journalist, academic, writer, activist, or researcher specializing in mining, environmental, and human rights issues in D.R. Congo, we invite you to share your research, personal experiences, and stories.
We strongly encourage women, youth, and indigenous groups to contribute and participate in this important dialogue.
Selected content will be published on our English and French platforms, as well as in the Congolese press.
CONTENT GUIDELINES :
- Format: reports, thematic or opinion articles, features, photo essays, or multimedia content.
- Content should be original, well-researched, and checked, and bring new ideas or perspectives to the topic.
- Reports and articles should be between 600 and 1,000 words.
- Language: French is preferred but English submissions will also be considered.
- Period: Articles will be published between July and September.
HOW TO APPLY
Send a short presentation of no more than three paragraphs to cgneema@chinaglobalsouth.com
Briefly explain your idea for the article, your preliminary research, and how you plan to produce it: what format, what type of sources you’ll use, what places you’ll visit, and when you’ll be able to send the first draft. Briefly describe your background with a resume or LinkedIn profile.
Please provide 2 or 3 examples of your previous work.
COMPENSATION: $250 for published contributions. Variations according to format and amount of work required will be discussed individually with contributors.
Some contributors will be invited to be a guest on a dedicated podcast. The participation will be remunerated $150.
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS? If you have any questions or would simply like more information, please do not hesitate to contact C.Geraud Neema, CGSP French Editor, at cgneema@chinaglobalsouth.com, or Eric Olander, CGSP Editor in Chief, at eric@chinaglobalsouth.com.
CGSP is an equal-opportunity employer. Women and those from other underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to apply.