Extractive Industries Global Development NetworkName: Extractive Industries Global Development Network Through the Extractive Industries Global Development Alliance, Pact has established a network of responsible, internationally-listed mining companies, international development organizations and local and national non-governmental organizations. The Extractive Industries Network (EIN) strives to achieve sustainable and equitable economic recovery and improved governance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Through the Network, Pact works with companies and local communities to identify social needs and develop solutions. Projects include education, health, agricultural extension, small and medium enterprise development and small infrastructure projects. The Network is also working at the governance level, focusing on practical implementation of the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. In addition, Pact is working with companies, communities and international stakeholders to develop innovative solutions to the issue of artisanal mining. Results as of June, 2007 include: 55 communities mobilized to identify their needs and develop an action plan for local development; 38 community infrastructure projects completed (schools, clinics, markets, and water points); 1,996 rural households receiving support for agriculture activities; 48 SMME’s established; 959 women participating in micro-savings and literacy programs; 1 provincial community development fund design report completed; 1 analysis of mining sector revenues to aid development of public revenue management reform activities underway; 1 workshop on voluntary principles implementation completed; 252 artisanal miners trained to begin new jobs and businesses. Network MembersAngloGold Ashanti Anvil Mining and Pact Congo suspend partnership activitiesPact Congo has partnered with Extractive Industries Global Development Network member, Anvil Mining, since 2006 to assist with and implement social development programs for communities in the Katanga Province . Joint programs have included agricultural training, women’s micro-credit, capacity building and the training of entrepreneurs. Together, Pact and Anvil have achieved much in the way of livelihood improvement and the results of the partnership are a source of pride.Unfortunately Anvil has had to significantly reduced expenditure on social development for the immediate future and will end the partnership with Pact Congo from January 20th 2009. The suspension of activities was necessary because of the downturn in the global economy, the sharp decline of the copper price of more than 50% since September 2008, the prolonged DRC Government mining contract review process and insecurity in north-eastern DRC, which is damaging investor confidence, as well as the fact that there is currently limited access to capital for the majority of the mining companies in Katanga. Pact Congo is actively seeking other resources to continue its work with the communities engaged in, and impacted by, mining in the DRC. Staff contacts
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