The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reaffirmed its ambition to position itself as a key hub in global critical minerals value chains, outlining a shift from raw exports toward deeper industrial integration and participation in emerging technology-driven industries.
Speaking during the official opening of the DRC Mining Week 2026, His Excellency Louis Watum Kabamba, National Minister of Mines of the DRC said that the country’s mining story combines national pride with global ambition, with a brief reference to national football team and local beer before outlining strategic priorities.
In this, he affirmed that the DRC intends to become a central player in technology value chains, highlighting its role in the global energy transition.
He said the country produced 3.5 million tons of copper in 2025 and exported 4 million tons of manganese, while also tracking the 3T minerals sector, which generated 678 million dollars in revenue.
Kabamba emphasized integrating young geologists and ENA-trained executives into the sector, calling them vital to new governance strategies.
He also highlighted diversification efforts, pointing to gold, chrome in Kasaï, and iron in the north as key pillars of industrial expansion.
He said digitizing the mining cadastre, alongside investments in energy, roads, railways, and ports, is essential to unlocking sector potential.
The objective, he noted, is to turn mineral wealth into hospitals, roads, and jobs, while ensuring equitable benefit-sharing with local communities.
Kabamba called for an end to historical inequalities in mining, arguing that more than a century of extraction has largely benefited elites.
He urged a post-mining vision that channels revenues into agriculture, education, infrastructure, and research, supporting long-term sustainable development.
