A leading ecotoxicologist from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is visiting The University of Queensland (UQ) to take part in research and develop teaching programs as part of IM4DC’s Distinguished Fellowship Program.
Professor Dieudonne Musibono, Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering at the University of Kinshasa, is being hosted by the Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining (CSRM) at the Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI).
Centre Director, Professor Saleem Ali, said it was a rare opportunity to have such a distinguished scholar from the DRC.
“Professor Musibono comes to us with a wealth of experience having worked as a consultant for the United Nations, the World Bank, government as well as the private sector,” Professor Ali said.
Whilst undertaking his Fellowship, the Professor is developing new courses that he will implement back in the DRC. He will also work on joint publications with colleagues at the CRSM focusing on the environmental and social impact of Australian investment in DRC. Professor Musibono is also visiting mining operations to gain an understanding of the Australian mining context.
Professor Musibono recently presented at a seminar on the ‘Congolese paradox’ of having one of the world’s largest reserves of natural resources, while being ranked as the world’s poorest country.
Based on his field work, the presentation focuses on the paradox between huge mineral reserves and extreme poverty for local communities. He analyses the main causes of the paradox and suggests ways forward.
Professor Ali has posted a blog on Professor Musibono’s visit .