KINSHASA, April 27 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo has announced the creation of a paramilitary mining guard aimed at securing mining operations and supply chains, as the country seeks to combat smuggling, improve governance, and attract investment.
The initiative was unveiled by the General Inspectorate of Mines, which said the program will be funded through a $100 million budget backed by strategic partnerships with the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
As the world’s leading producer of cobalt and a major supplier of copper, lithium, coltan, and gold, Congo’s mining sector is central to global supply chains for electric vehicles and advanced technologies. However, insecurity and illegal trade have long undermined the sector’s potential.
The country is also grappling with conflict in its mineral-rich eastern regions, where a Rwanda-backed rebellion has led to widespread violence and displacement, disrupting mining activities and supply routes.
According to the inspectorate, the new mining guard will be deployed gradually across key mining regions, with plans to build a force of more than 20,000 personnel by 2028. An initial group of between 2,500 and 3,000 officers is expected to become operational by December 2026 following recruitment and training in collaboration with the national military.
Rafael Kabengele said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to reforming the sector by improving governance, transparency, and traceability of mineral production.
The mining guard will assume responsibilities currently handled by the armed forces, including securing mining sites, escorting mineral shipments to processing facilities and border posts, and protecting infrastructure and investments.
The move comes amid growing international interest in Congo’s mineral wealth. Under a minerals partnership with the United States, firms such as Virtus Minerals have already begun investing in copper and cobalt assets, while other Western companies are exploring opportunities, including in previously inaccessible areas.
Authorities say the creation of the mining guard will help curb illicit trade, strengthen state oversight, and restore confidence among investors looking to tap into the country’s vast natural resources.
