The International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) hosted a series of training sessions in ICGLR member states, including a recent workshop in Mbarara, Uganda. The goal was to strengthen the region’s capacity for third-party mineral audits. This initiative, co-funded by the European Union, is a significant step in ensuring ethical mineral certification by equipping pre-accredited auditors with the necessary skills and tools for effective audits for 3TG mineral exporters across the Great Lakes Region.
The trainings were designed to enhance the credibility and efficiency of ICGLR audits by providing participants with in-depth knowledge of the auditing process and best practices in mineral certification. Gerard Nayuburundi, Coordinator of the ICGLR Technical Unit on Natural Resources, provided insights into the ICGLR framework and the Regional Initiative on the Fight Against the Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources (RINR), helping auditors understand ICGLR’s efforts toward responsible resource governance.
Practical Training and Hand-on Audit Exercises
The workshop featured a hands-on approach to auditing, covering essential elements of the ICGLR Third-Party Audit methodology. Participants explored key components such as Mine and Exporter Status, and the ICGLR Audit Toolbox. These exercises provided practical skills to ensure transparency within the mineral supply chain.
A major focus of the workshop was the ICGLR Third-Party Audit Procedure Document, which outlines necessary steps to prepare, conduct, and report on audits. The document supports improved due diligence and promotes legal trade in the Great Lakes Region.
To further develop their skills, participants crafted interview questions tailored to mineral supply chain actors, including exporters, mine sites, and transporters. They conducted simulated interviews in pairs and participated in debriefing sessions. This interactive method prepared auditors for effective data collection during fieldwork.
Field Visit for Practical Application
To put their training into practice, the auditors visited Wood Cross Smelting Company Ltd., a tin smelter in Mbarara, along with mineral suppliers, African Panther Resources, operating in Kikagati, Isingiro District. The visit enabled trainees to conduct a simulated audits and address real-world oversight challenges.
Participants Insights and Feeback
Before the training, many auditors faced challenges in interpreting and applying audit methodologies, especially in high-risk supply chains. Judith Amanya, Deputy Executive Director at Minerals Africa Development Institution (MADI) said the training clarified aligning ICGLR’s Regional Certification Mechanism with international standards and addressed issues like data reliability and transparency.
Kidega Richard, Director of Operations and the Lead Auditor at Nimwe Suppliers Limited also shared his experiences, noting the training provided a comprehensive understanding of third-party audit methodologies, stakeholder assessment, and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance. He emphasized that structured methodologies and reporting templates improved his auditing and report-writing skills.
Both participants agreed that the systematic approach taught during the training would enhance audit quality and consistency. Richard emphasized improved checklist-based questions would lead to more thorough and logical audits, resulting in accurate findings.
Amanya proposed creating a network of auditors for continuous knowledge sharing, suggesting a WhatsApp group and a regional community of practice (CoP) including audit firms. This network would facilitate real-time communication, exchange experiences, and improve audit quality.
Participants expressed confidence in applying their new knowledge to strengthen compliance with the ICGLR framework, enhance risk assessment techniques, improve data verification methods, and standardize audit procedures.
The ICGLR’s series of training marks a step forward in strengthening the integrity of mineral certification in the Great Lakes Region. Enhancing auditors’ skills supports responsible mineral governance, legal trade, and compliance with international due diligence standards.
The ICGLR’s efforts to combat the illegal exploitation of mineral resources are supported by its partners including the European Union through IMPACT and German Development Cooperation through GIZ.
The EU “Peace and Security in the Great Lakes Region” project aligns with these efforts, aiming to improve mining governance, security, stability, and development.
