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The Problem: Conflict Minerals
In regions like eastern DRC, mining revenues have historically financed armed groups. In response, the international community established a framework requiring buyers to verify that gold does not originate from conflict-affected areas or fund illegal armed groups.
Key Frameworks
OECD Due Diligence Guidance
The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) published a five-step Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas (CAHRAs). All serious buyers and refineries reference this framework.
iTSCi (ITRI Tin Supply Chain Initiative)
Originally developed for tin and tantalum, iTSCi expanded to cover gold in DRC and Rwanda. It provides:
- Physical tagging of mineral bags at the mine site
- Digital tracking through the supply chain
- Monthly incident reports to detect and address violations
LBMA Responsible Sourcing
The London Bullion Market Association requires all accredited refineries to source from OECD-compliant supply chains. This means international buyers who sell to LBMA-accredited refineries must purchase from certified sources.
What Conflict-Free Certification Means for Buyers
- Access to premium markets: LBMA-accredited refineries will only accept certified gold
- Regulatory compliance: Required by EU Conflict Minerals Regulation (effective 2021)
- Corporate ESG requirements: Major banks and funds require conflict-free sourcing
- Insurance eligibility: Brokers increasingly require certification for cargo insurance
How Equator Gold Resources Maintains Compliance
- All DRC gold sourced from SAEMAPE-registered artisanal zones
- iTSCi tagging applied at point of collection
- CEEC export certificates accompany every shipment
- Third-party chain-of-custody audits conducted quarterly
Buyers receive a complete compliance package with every purchase.
Discuss Your Gold Sourcing Requirements
Interested in discussing legitimate gold sourcing, mining opportunities or African gold supply? Contact Equator Gold Resources to discuss your requirements and the applicable due-diligence process. Availability of gold is always subject to verification, and transactions are subject to applicable regulations.
About the Editorial Team
This article is published by the Equator Gold Resources Editorial Team for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal, tax, investment or professional advice. Gold transactions, mining, licensing, export, taxation, AML/KYC and documentation requirements differ by jurisdiction and change over time. Buyers and investors should confirm current requirements with the relevant government authorities in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), South Sudan and other applicable jurisdictions, and seek advice from qualified legal, customs and assay professionals.
