DRC Govt Backs Kivuvu Manganese Project to Boost Jobs and Local Development
DRC Prime Minister Supports Kivuvu Manganese Project, Promising 2 Million Tonnes Production and 7,500 Community Jobs
On the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa reaffirmed her government’s commitment to the Kivuvu project, a joint venture between Congolese firm Kerith Resources Ltd and the Japanese group Asia Mineral Limited (AML), a global leader in manganese mining.
During a meeting in Yokohama, Prime Minister Suminwa welcomed AML President Hirotaka Suzuki, who presented the framework of this strategic partnership aimed at transforming the manganese sector in Kongo Central.
The Kivuvu project is designed to achieve an annual production capacity of two million tonnes of manganese while generating over 1,000 direct jobs and benefiting approximately 7,500 indirect community members.
Prime Minister Suminwa emphasized the importance of responsible operations.
“The Government supports this project, but it is essential that the rules are respected so that the exploitation truly benefits the national economy and the population,” she said.
Kerith Resources Ltd Director Fely Samuna also welcomed the government’s backing, noting the project’s potential impact beyond Kongo Central, extending to the entire DRC.
AML President Hirotaka Suzuki outlined an investment plan that goes beyond mining, incorporating initiatives in infrastructure, education, and fiscal development.
The project places strong emphasis on community development. Training centers, livestock programs, and agricultural projects are integrated to diversify local economic opportunities.
“We aim to exceed 1,000 jobs and directly or indirectly involve around 7,500 people. Our ambition is to make this project a catalyst for community development,” said Mr. Samuna.
The Kivuvu project is emerging as a model of sustainable, win-win cooperation, ensuring responsible manganese exploitation while driving national development and benefiting local populations.
