Minister of Mines Prioritizes Congolese Geologists in Strategic Subsoil Exploration
DRC Opens Mineral Exploration to Congolese Experts to Strengthen National Mining Governance
Previously dominated by foreign expertise, mineral exploration in the Democratic Republic of Congo is now being opened to Congolese professionals.
Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing local geologists, who possess the deepest understanding of the country’s geological realities.
Since assuming office, Minister Watum Kabamba has focused on equipping Congolese geologists with the resources needed to independently and comprehensively study the nation’s subsoil.
Recognized as key guardians of the country’s mineral wealth, these experts occupy a strategic role in governance and sustainable development within the mining sector.
In line with this vision, the Minister met with a delegation of Congolese geologists led by Patrick Tshey, the second vice-president of the Order of Geologists. During the meeting, Minister Watum Kabamba emphasized the importance of close collaboration with the National Geological Survey, the state’s technical authority on mineral resource development.
The delegation, accompanied by the Secretary General of the Order of Geologists, praised the quality of the discussions and expressed strong support for the Minister’s commitment to sovereign, responsible, and sustainable geological exploration. The geologists reaffirmed their readiness to assist the government in implementing this strategic vision.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the delegation to present the missions of the Order of Geologists and the Commission of Geologists, highlighting their central role in regulating the profession and promoting structured geological exploration in the DRC.
This initiative underscores the government’s focus on strengthening national expertise, promoting Congolese know-how, and building modern mining governance based on a deep understanding of the country’s subsoil, ultimately contributing to the economic and social development of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
