The calls to make mining sector more attractive in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have emerged as the 31st edition of Investing in African Mining Indaba enters its second day in Cape Town, South Africa.
According to the Congolese businessman and politician Jean Bamanisa Saidi, the development of urban cities is a main way to make the mining sector in the DRC even more attractive.
Jean Bamanisa believes the mining sector is evolving and must be made more attractive, particularly to multinational companies.
“In my work promoting cities and the Corridor, the mining sector is of great interest to us because we’ve already engaged with key decision-makers and stakeholders. Our goal is to see them contribute to the country’s development, much like Gécamines did by turning mining camps into thriving cities. Examples of this transformation include Lubumbashi, Likasi, and Kolwezi,” he said.
He also highlighted the growing presence of mines in the country, emphasizing that the real estate sector and the financial industry must respond to this demand by providing affordable housing options for the population, rather than the current situation where miners live in makeshift camps.
“I oppose the idea of mining camps,” he said. “During my time as Governor, I had to initiate development plans, as seen with Kibali Gold Mining, which led to the growth of towns like Watsa.”
He believes that by developing entire cities, miners will leave a lasting legacy after their departure, as life continues beyond the mines.
As President of Expo Béton, he seized the opportunity to announce the upcoming event scheduled for March 2025, which will bring together enthusiasts of urban and corridor development.
“Expo Béton will take place from March 12 to 15, focusing specifically on mineral transport logistics. The Lobito Corridor is currently being developed, and key junctions are needed. We will advocate for public-private partnerships to secure multiple concessions that will help connect the country. This will be guided by a comprehensive plan with the support of various ministries, including Planning, Transport, and Provincial Governments. The need to build railways is more urgent than ever. I’ve been raising the alarm about the necessity of roads around Kinshasa and in Kongo Central,” explained the Expo Béton president.
“We are currently producing over 3 million tons of minerals. In the next 5 to 8 years, we expect this figure to reach 8 million tons. To fully capitalize on this, we must establish public-private partnerships, build railways, and develop both rural and urban cities along these railways to benefit from the corridor. A strategic plan is essential,” he emphasized.
Expo Béton is a trade fair focused on urban development, corridors, and special economic zones. It will take place in Lubumbashi from March 12 to 15, under the theme: “Southern Corridors of the DRC-SADC: Projects to Develop and Business Opportunities.”
Following sessions in Kinshasa and Kongo Central, Katanga will host this major event.
The expo will cover various topics, including mining, energy, employment, logistics, infrastructure, and housing.
