Our Mission

Overview

Artisanal cobalt mining is only ever associated with negative impacts on artisanal and small-scale mining communities. Although the artisanal and small-scale mining sector is indeed in many cases characterised by poor and dangerous working conditions and child labour, the FCA challenges this overly simple perspective of cobalt mining in the DRC. We know that it does not have to be like this.

With support and investment, sites can be improved. We also believe that artisanal cobalt is not just a problem. It simultaneously harbours great opportunities: for the global energy transition towards cleaner electrification; but also, and just as importantly, as a potent driver for community development in the DRC, in Lualaba, in the households of mine workers and for their families.

Our vision

Along the length and breadth of the artisanal and small-scale mining cobalt supply chain stakeholders align to contribute to the development of responsible and fair cobalt, bringing prosperity to mining communities while maintaining sustainable standards and supplying the global demand for equitable cobalt. That is a future we work for.

This vision makes the FCA more than a transient development project – but a solid collaboration that unites the supply chain and works towards a clear vision for artisanal and small-scale mining in ten years from now. The vision is not for a collection of one-off projects, unconnected, unplanned, implemented on the boundaries of a few large mining concessions. But rather, a joined-up approach that maximises positive impact in the sector. So much good happens in isolation across the DRC. Imagine if it were all coordinated! Collaboration is key to change as collaboration leads to greater impact than working alone. The impact of working together is greater than the sum of the parts.

to transform the cobalt artisanal and small-scale mining (“ASM”) industry to have a positive impact in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the “DRC”) by channelling demand for and increasing availability of responsible artisanal and small-scale mining cobalt,

to systemically address the root causes of child labour and dangerous practices at artisanal cobalt mining sites, and

to foster a just transition to a diversified economy to drive the sustainable development of the region.