DRC Advances Nationwide Geological Mapping with $180-Million Xcalibur Contract
DRC Signs $180 Million Xcalibur Contract for Nationwide Geological and Geophysical Mapping
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has signed a $180-million contract with Xcalibur Multiphysics Group SL to undertake airborne geophysical and geological mapping across the country, Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba has said.
Speaking during a review of the first year of the Suminwa II government, Watum said the project is intended to improve the country’s understanding of its geological potential and provide more comprehensive data to support mineral exploration and investment.
The minister also said the government is working to recover historical geological records held outside the country.
A team from the ministry has visited the Africa Museum in Tervuren, Belgium, to pursue the recovery of geological archives relating to the DRC.
Beyond exploration, Watum highlighted progress in mining governance and traceability. He said upgraded equipment at the Centre for Evaluation, Expertise and Certification (CEEC) laboratory has strengthened the detection of mineral by-products in exports, with the traceability system generating more than $136 million for the public treasury since October 2025.
The government has also recovered nearly 3,000 km² of mining concessions that have returned to the public domain, with plans to redistribute them to operators with the financial and technical capacity to explore and develop new deposits.
Watum further said about 64 artisanal mining zones have been identified, although they still need to be developed before becoming operational.
On local mineral processing, he pointed to Manono Lithium, which he said completed the DRC’s first export of lithium concentrate.
The government expects lithium sulphate production to begin by December, targeting applications including battery manufacturing and healthcare.
The minister also reported progress in the planned withdrawal of military and police personnel from mining sites, as well as measures to combat mineral fraud and strengthen engagement between government and mining companies.
The initiatives form part of the government’s broader effort to improve mining governance, expand geological knowledge and increase the economic value generated from the DRC’s mineral resources.
