The 2025 edition of DRC Mining Week, held in Lubumbashi from June 11 to 13, marked a significant milestone in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) mining sector. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the event underscored the nation’s pivotal role in the global mining industry, particularly in the production of cobalt, copper, and other critical minerals.

Under the theme “20 Years of Shaping Mining in the DRC – Investing in Infrastructure Development and Energy Security: Vision 2025–2030”, this year’s conference emphasised the sector’s evolution and its strategic direction toward sustainable growth and global relevance.

A central focus was the urgent need for education reform to support the mining sector’s expansion. Migrace Ilunga Mbayo, Managing Director of MB Services SARL, highlighted that a skilled workforce is essential for the sustainable development of mining operations. Initiatives aimed at enhancing technical education and vocational training were discussed as crucial steps toward bridging the skills gap and ensuring that the local population can actively participate in and benefit from the mining industry.

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Discussions also centred on the importance of community engagement in mining activities. Ouma Samake, a representative at OHCHR, emphasised that for mining to be truly sustainable, it must be inclusive and beneficial to local communities.  Selina Hayes, CEO of Hayes Group International, echoed this by saying that when communities are engaged and economically secure, they are less vulnerable to exploitation by armed groups and more inclined to work constructively with mining operators.

The DRC’s potential to become a leading mining nation was also a focal point of the conference. Strategic initiatives aimed at improving the regulatory environment, enhancing infrastructure, and attracting foreign investment were discussed as key factors in realising this vision. By addressing these areas, the DRC can strengthen its position in the global mining market and ensure that its vast mineral resources contribute to national development.

At the end of the conference, it was evident that the way forward lies in collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable practices. The discussions provided a roadmap for the future of mining in the DRC—one that is sustainable, inclusive, and poised for global leadership.