The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has unveiled plans to establish a $100 million paramilitary force to secure its vast mining sector, as authorities move to curb rampant mineral smuggling and improve investor confidence in one of the world’s most resource-rich nations.
According to reports, the new mining security unit will be funded through partnerships with the United States and the United Arab Emirates, and will be deployed to protect key mining sites and supply chains.
The initiative targets the protection of critical minerals such as cobalt, copper, and gold, which are central to global supply chains for clean energy technologies and electronics. The DRC is the world’s leading producer of cobalt and a major supplier of copper, making stability in its mining sector strategically important.
Government officials say the paramilitary unit will gradually expand to more than 20,000 personnel by 2028, with an initial force of between 2,500 and 3,000 recruits expected to be trained and operational by the end of 2026.
The force will take over key security roles currently handled by the national army, including guarding mining sites, escorting mineral shipments, and protecting foreign investments. Authorities believe the move will help address longstanding security concerns that have deterred investors and hindered the development of the extractive sector.
Illegal mining and smuggling of minerals—particularly cobalt and gold—have been persistent challenges in the DRC, fueled by weak governance and ongoing conflict in the eastern regions. Armed groups have often exploited mineral-rich areas, contributing to instability and loss of state revenue.
The creation of the paramilitary force is also tied to broader geopolitical dynamics. The DRC has recently strengthened cooperation with the United States through a minerals partnership aimed at securing supply chains and reducing reliance on China’s dominance in critical minerals.
Security remains a major obstacle in the country’s mining industry, particularly in the east where conflict linked to rebel groups has displaced communities and disrupted economic activities. The government hopes that the new unit will not only improve safety but also enhance transparency and governance in the sector.
Analysts note that while the initiative could boost investor confidence and formalize mineral flows, its success will depend on effective oversight and coordination with existing security structures.
If implemented as planned, the paramilitary mining guard could mark a significant shift in how the DRC manages its lucrative but volatile mineral resources, balancing economic ambitions with the need for stability in a sector critical to both national revenues and global industries.
