DRC Mines Minister Urges Youth to Drive Sustainable Value Creation
DRC Mines Minister Louis Watum Calls on Youth to Transform Mineral Wealth into Sustainable Economic Growth
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba has called on young Congolese to play a greater role in transforming the country’s vast mineral resources into long-term economic and social benefits.
Speaking at a youth-focused symposium in Kinshasa on 18 August, Watum said the DRC’s exceptional mineral wealth should be viewed not only as an opportunity for the current generation but also as an asset that must be developed responsibly for future generations.
“Mineral resources alone are not enough to create lasting prosperity,” the Minister said, highlighting the need for capital, reliable energy, infrastructure, technology, skills, industrial discipline and investor confidence.
He encouraged young Congolese leaders to become entrepreneurs, investors and innovators capable of building businesses and expertise around the country’s mining value chain.
Youth and the Future of Mining
The symposium brought together more than 160 participants, including young leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and stakeholders from the mining and energy sectors.
Organised by the International Republican Institute (IRI) in partnership with the US Embassy in the DRC, the event focused on youth participation in the mining sector and the expanding economic partnership between the DRC and the United States.
The discussions come as the DRC seeks to maximise the economic benefits of its copper, cobalt and other critical mineral resources amid growing international demand.
For the country to capture greater value from its mineral endowment, Watum stressed the importance of developing the capabilities required to support investment, industrialisation and innovation.
He urged young people to move beyond simply seeking employment and instead pursue opportunities to build enterprises, invest, innovate and create lasting economic value.
The Minister’s message reflects a broader push to ensure that the DRC’s mining wealth contributes to sustainable development, stronger local capabilities and opportunities for future generations.
