Yannick Makola Appointed First Congolese Managing Director of Kamoto Copper Company
Glencore’s KCC Names Yannick Makola as First Congolese CEO to Lead Major DRC Copper Producer
Kamoto Copper Company (KCC), a subsidiary of global mining group Glencore in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has appointed Yannick Makola as Managing Director, subject to approval by the company’s Board of Directors.
The appointment marks a historic milestone for KCC, as Makola becomes the first Congolese national to lead the company since its establishment.
Makola joined KCC in 2020 as General Manager responsible for Processing before advancing through senior leadership roles.
He most recently served as Chief Operating Officer (COO), overseeing key operational activities at the copper and cobalt producer.
He brings extensive experience from the natural resources sector, having previously worked with major international companies including Sasol, BHP, South32, and MMG. His expertise covers industrial operations, organisational transformation, safety management, and improving operational performance.
Makola holds a master’s degree in technology management from the University of Pretoria, a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, and has completed the Chief Operating Officer Programme at INSEAD.
KCC said the appointment reflects its commitment to developing Congolese leadership and strengthening local talent within the company’s management structure.
The new Managing Director takes over at a time when KCC is focused on improving operational performance, expanding its mining activities, and supporting the development of local suppliers and employees through initiatives such as the PAMEP programme, which aims to strengthen small and medium-sized businesses.
However, the company continues to face challenges, including a tax dispute with the Congolese government. In July 2026, tax authorities-initiated enforcement measures related to a reported claim of more than US$6 billion in outstanding tax obligations, including the sealing of some company facilities and the seizure of trucks transporting mining products.
Makola’s appointment comes at a critical period for KCC as the company seeks to strengthen its operations, maintain stakeholder relations, and reinforce its role as one of the DRC’s leading copper and cobalt producers.
