DRC Launches PanAfGeo+ INVEST Program to Enhance Geological Capacity and Responsible Mining
DRC Launches PanAfGeo+ INVEST Initiative to Boost Mining Governance, Geological Data, and Sustainable Resource Management
The Democratic Republic of the Congo officially launched the PanAfGeo+ INVEST program on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, marking a significant step toward strengthening governance, transparency, and national sovereignty in the mining sector.
The launch ceremony was held at the Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel, bringing together key technical and institutional partners.
The event was presided over by the Minister of Mines, Louis Watum Kabamba, alongside representatives of the European Union in the country.
A Strategic Partnership for Mining Governance
In his address, the Minister described the initiative as a “structuring program” that reflects the strengthening of cooperation between the DRC, European institutions, and African geoscientific organizations.
He expressed the Congolese Government’s appreciation for the European Union’s continued support, particularly in advancing sustainable development and building technical capacity within the mining sector.
The program aligns with the national development vision of President Félix Tshisekedi and the reform agenda of the government led by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka.
Its objective is to improve natural resource governance through enhanced geological knowledge and more responsible management of mineral wealth.
Focus on Scientific Capacity and Investment Readiness
The launch of PanAfGeo+ INVEST signals the beginning of a structured phase of technical and scientific activities.
A second phase, known as the “Country Window DRC,” is scheduled for March 19, 2026. This phase will concentrate on nationwide fieldwork and laboratory analysis to strengthen geological data systems.
The initiative is being implemented by the National Geological Survey of Congo (SGN-C) in partnership with the Bureau de Recherches Géologiques et Minières (BRGM) and the Team Europe framework.
The program aims to transform the country’s geological potential into a sustainable driver of economic growth by:
- developing value chains for critical minerals
- improving geological mapping and data management
- enhancing the investment climate in the mining sector
- promoting responsible and transparent resource exploitation
Positioning the DRC in the Global Energy Transition
In a global context characterized by rising demand for strategic minerals essential to the energy transition, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is positioning itself as a pivotal supplier of critical resources.
Minister Watum Kabamba emphasized the importance of responsible mining practices that deliver tangible benefits to local communities.
“Geoscientific data is a strategic lever for guiding investment decisions and ensuring the sustainable management of our resources,” he stated.
A New Phase of Scientific Cooperation
Closing the ceremony, Louis Watum Kabamba officially declared the PanAfGeo+ INVEST program operational, marking the start of a new phase of scientific collaboration and sustainable natural resource development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
