EGC and Mercuria Partner to Transform Kasulo into Benchmark for Responsible Cobalt Mining
EGC and Mercuria Sign Deal to Transform Kasulo into Global Benchmark for Responsible Artisanal Cobalt Mining in DR Congo
Entreprise Générale du Cobalt (EGC) and Mercuria Energy Trading have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the formalization and development of the Kasulo artisanal mining site in Kolwezi, alongside efforts to strengthen the associated cobalt supply chain.
The agreement aims to establish what the partners describe as a “gold standard” model for artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), positioning the Kasulo site as an international benchmark for transparency, sustainability, and responsible sourcing in cobalt production.
Building a Responsible and Traceable Artisanal Mining Model
Under the partnership, EGC and Mercuria will work closely with artisanal miners, local cooperatives, Gécamines, and both central and provincial authorities to implement systems addressing the core challenges facing the artisanal mining sector.
These include improving occupational health and safety, ensuring fair labor practices, protecting human rights, strengthening environmental management, and establishing full end-to-end traceability across the cobalt value chain.
The project will align with internationally recognized governance and compliance frameworks, including the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains and the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
These standards are increasingly critical for securing access to global markets, particularly in battery and electric vehicle supply chains where responsible sourcing requirements are tightening.
Strategic Push to Professionalize Artisanal Mining
As a state-owned entity mandated to regulate and commercialize cobalt from artisanal mining, EGC views the partnership as a key step toward formalizing the sector and improving working conditions for miners.
Mercuria, one of the world’s major independent commodity trading firms, sees the initiative as part of a broader strategy to build secure and transparent supply chains for critical minerals.
According to company officials, the collaboration is designed to demonstrate that strong governance standards including safety, traceability, and human rights protections can coexist with reliable production flows and long-term supply security.
Access to financing through the partnership is expected to help stabilize production, improve operational standards, and create sustainable economic opportunities for local communities dependent on artisanal mining.
Community Development and Long-Term Sustainability
A central pillar of the initiative is community engagement and capacity building. The partners plan to provide training and technical support to mining cooperatives to improve operational practices, strengthen compliance, and enhance productivity.
By supporting skills development and responsible mining practices, the project aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of artisanal operations while reducing environmental and social risks associated with informal mining activities.
The Kasulo initiative also reflects growing international pressure on cobalt producers to demonstrate ethical sourcing practices, particularly as demand for battery minerals continues to rise amid the global energy transition.
About the Partners
Entreprise Générale du Cobalt (EGC) was established in 2019 by decree of the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo as a subsidiary of Gécamines.
The company holds the exclusive mandate to purchase, process, and market strategic minerals produced through artisanal mining, including cobalt, coltan, and germanium. Its role is central to the government’s efforts to formalize the artisanal sector and strengthen compliance with international standards.
Mercuria Energy Trading is a global commodities trading group active across energy and raw materials markets.
The company has expanded its involvement in critical minerals supply chains as part of its strategy to support the global energy transition through responsible sourcing, investment, and trading activities.
