Congo Launches $100m Mining Guard Backed by U.S.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced the creation of a paramilitary mining guard to secure mining sites and mineral supply chains. The initiative, unveiled by the General Inspectorate of Mines, comes as the world’s top cobalt producer seeks to curb smuggling, improve security, and boost investor confidence.
The programme will be funded with a $100 million budget through partnerships with the United States and the United Arab Emirates. Congo, which is also the world’s second largest copper supplier and holds major reserves of lithium, coltan, and gold, has faced growing insecurity in its mineral rich east, where a Rwanda backed rebellion has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Last year, Kinshasa signed a minerals partnership with Washington aimed at strengthening supply chains and reducing China’s dominance in critical minerals. Under this partnership, US firm Virtus took over copper cobalt miner Chemaf, while other Western companies have shown interest in Congo’s mining assets, including in rebel held areas.
The new mining guard will gradually be deployed across the country’s mining regions, with plans to reach more than 20,000 personnel by 2028. A first contingent of 2,500 to 3,000 officers is expected to be operational from December 2026 after recruitment and six months of training in collaboration with the military.
Inspector General of Mines Rafael Kabengele said the initiative reflects the President’s determination to clean up the mining sector by eliminating practices that undermine good governance, transparency, and mineral traceability.
The mining guard will take over security duties currently handled by the defence forces. Its mandate includes securing mine sites, escorting mineral shipments from extraction areas to processing facilities and border posts, and safeguarding investments.
Officials believe the programme will strengthen investor confidence and improve state oversight of mineral production, helping Congo better manage its vast natural resources while addressing the threats of smuggling and organised crime.
The move also signals Congo’s intent to position itself as a reliable supplier of critical minerals in the global market, reassuring investors that the country is committed to stability and transparency in its mining sector.
Observers say the initiative could reshape Congo’s mining industry by reducing illegal activity, improving accountability, and ensuring that mineral wealth contributes more directly to national development.
