Paper short abstract:

This paper will analyze the dynamic relation between artisanal mining and urbanization in a fragile setting of violent conflict. The analysis is based on the case study of Nyabibwe in the Kivu region of Eastern D.R. Congo.

Paper long abstract:

Using the example of Nyabibwe, an artisanal mining centre in the Kalehe territory of in South Kivu (Eastern D.R. Congo), this investigates the complex relationship between mining activities and processes of urbanization in a fragile context of violent conflict.

This analysis is based on ethnographic data collected during different fieldwork visits in Kalehe territory. Nyabibwe's and its cassiterite mines form a fascinating case to study dynamics of mining urbanization, not only in terms of demographic and spatial changes but also in terms of important economic and political transformations.

The evolution of this centre reveals the emergence of particular forms of urbanity, characterized by economic and socio-political opportunities as well as by dynamics of fierce conflict and contestation.

In the context of an extremely fragmented state and a long history of violent conflict in this region, urbanization processes and the boost of local economic activities do not only attract fortune-seekers and economic entrepreneurs, but also displaced people seeking for refuge and security, as well as members of different rebel groups or other state- and non-state armed actors in search for personal benefits. The influence of armed actors in this highly militarized environment has left a strong impact on local power struggles and practices of urban governance.

Starting from the idea that urban centres such as Nyabibwe represent distinctive socio-political and cultural spaces generating distinctive forms of urbanity, this paper will focus both on changing livelihoods as well as changing local power structures.