The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced that nearly 90% of its vast mineral resources remain untapped, and it is seeking global investors to help unlock this potential.
Speaking at African Mining Week 2025 in Cape Town, DRC Minister of Mines, Louis Watum Kabamba, called on international mining companies and financiers to form long-term partnerships that go beyond extraction and focus on sustainable development.
“Ninety percent of our minerals are not yet exploited. We are offering them. The DRC is seeking industry movers who will harness these resources to stimulate economic growth and create value for our people,” he said.
The DRC is one of the world’s richest countries in terms of natural resources, holding significant reserves of cobalt, copper, lithium, gold, and iron ore. Louis Watum Kabamba emphasized that the government is seeking long-term partnerships that extend beyond production into exploration, infrastructure investment, and workforce development.
“We are home to the youngest population in the world, and we want investors committed to developing our local talent,” he added. “Our beneficiation strategy ensures high returns through proximity to resources, special economic zones, and a dynamic young workforce.”
The DRC is investing in satellite and spatial data technologies to speed up exploration and reduce uncertainty for investors. Kabamba highlighted the country’s 20 billion tons of iron ore reserves, saying they could power Africa’s steel industry for decades.
“We have enough iron ore to supply steel for the entire continent. Africa must identify what is critical to us and prioritize it to drive regional growth,” he noted.
The minister also underlined the need for cross-border cooperation to fully unlock the continent’s mining potential. By focusing on beneficiation and processing within Africa, the DRC aims to keep more wealth on the continent while ensuring sustainable development.
This is Why Investors Should Consider the DRC
• 90% of minerals remain untapped
• World’s largest reserves of cobalt and major deposits of copper, lithium, and gold
• 20 billion tons of iron ore for steel production
• Youngest workforce globally, offering skills and growth potential
• Strategic location with special economic zones for investors
With demand for critical minerals expected to rise in the green energy transition, the DRC is positioning itself as one of the most attractive investment destinations in the global mining sector.
