Developments in the Democratic Republic of Congo show that the country's mining sector is transitioning from volume-driven extraction to a more structured industry focused on global standards and sustainability.
Reflecting on the recent 20th DRC Mining Week in Lubumbashi, SRK Consulting (Congo) Chairman and Geological Consultant Dominique Sambwa, said the event highlighted a range of positive signs that are underpinning the country's future prospects as a mining giant. These included infrastructure for energy security, adoption of mining industry standards, and a peace agreement that could facilitate better access to mineral deposits.
"With the number of attendees reaching about 5,000 this year, the event was a significant forum for all stakeholders including government, who provided encouraging updates on progress in power and transport infrastructure projects", said Sambwa. "These developments are essential in allowing mining companies to scale their operations, as well as for exploration efforts to access new areas - so that the DRC's mining sector can continue to diversify beyond copper and cobalt."
Lobito Rail Link
Among the key infrastructure projects underway was the Lobito Corridor - a rail link connecting the DRC's mineral - rich regions with the Angolan port of Lobito - which is supported by the international Finance Corporations.
He highlighted the growing interest in lithium deposits such as Manono in DRC's eastern region, and diamond prospects in central DRC. Investor interest is certainly increasing, he noted, with significant representation at the event from Western Countries like the US.
"Everyone active and interested in the DRC has also been heartened by the moves to secure a peace deal between the DRC and Rwanda, as this could catalyse further investment and mining expansion, especially in areas that have been destabilised by military activity," he says.
