DRC Confirms Congo Fair Mining as Sole Owner of Rubaya Mine

DRC Confirms Congo Fair Mining’s Exclusive Ownership of Rubaya Tantalum Mine, Ending Years of Title Disputes

The Council of State of the Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed that Congo Fair Mining (CFM) is the sole legal owner of the Rubaya concession (PE 76), spanning 360 square meters, according to a press release issued by the company on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

The statement explains that:

“On April 30, 2025, the Council of State annulled PE 4731, which had been illegally awarded to SMB, and reaffirmed the indivisibility of PE 76. On September 4, 2025, the High Administrative Court suspended ministerial decree No. 00071/CAB.MIN/MINES/01/2025 of March 12, 2025, which irregularly awarded PE 16159, formerly PE 4731, to SAKIMA SA.”

These rulings end years of overlapping titles that previously caused instability and recurring conflicts in Rubaya, restoring legal certainty, justice, and good governance in the Congolese mining sector.

CFM described the confirmation as a major victory for the company, the DRC mining industry, and global industries relying on Rubaya’s strategic tantalum reserves. The company highlighted the mine’s critical importance to the world market.

In line with this development, CFM contacted Congolese and U.S. authorities via the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa on August 19, 2025, to reaffirm its legal rights and emphasize the strategic significance of the concession.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (2023), the DRC produces over 40% of the world’s tantalum, with Rubaya contributing significantly to this output.

CFM stressed that lasting peace in North Kivu, and particularly in Rubaya, is essential:

“Without peace, we cannot talk about investments or sustainable development,” the press release concluded.