DRC and Zambia Seek Stronger Regional Mining Cooperation and Local Value Addition
DRC Reaffirms Mining Partnership with Zambia to Boost Mineral Processing and Regional Industrialisation
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening mining cooperation with Zambia, with a focus on local mineral processing, regional value chains and increased economic benefits for communities.
DRC Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba reiterated the country’s position on October 19, 2026, when he represented President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo at the opening of the Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka (ZAMII) 2026 in Lusaka.
Held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, the event was themed “Transforming the African Mining Landscape: Regional Value Chains, Shared Prosperity and Community Empowerment.”
Mr Watum called for closer collaboration between African mining countries to develop regional value chains that support industrialisation and enable more mineral resources to be processed within the continent rather than exported primarily as raw materials.
He emphasised the importance of transparent mining governance and ensuring that the economic benefits generated by mineral extraction reached local communities.
Local Processing at the Centre of Regional Cooperation
The DRC’s position reflects a broader push to increase the value derived from Africa’s mineral resources through domestic processing, industrial development and job creation.
Stronger cooperation between the DRC and Zambia could support the development of complementary industries, improve access to processing capacity and create opportunities for investment across the mining value chain.
Both countries are major copper producers and play an important role in global supply chains for minerals used in electrification, renewable energy and other industrial applications.
Mr Watum’s remarks highlighted the importance of turning mineral wealth into industrial capacity, employment and broader economic prosperity.
The DRC also stressed the need for transparent management of mining revenues and a fairer distribution of the benefits generated by resource extraction.
Cross-Border Trade and Infrastructure
Improving transport infrastructure and facilitating cross-border trade were also identified as priorities for strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Mr Watum highlighted the importance of improving the movement of goods through the Kasumbalesa border crossing, a strategic trade route connecting the DRC and Zambia.
More efficient border procedures could reduce delays in the movement of minerals and other goods, improve supply-chain reliability and strengthen commercial links between the neighbouring countries.
Improved transport and trade infrastructure would also support the development of regional processing industries by making it easier to move raw materials, intermediate products and finished goods across borders.
High-Level Engagement at ZAMII 2026
On the sidelines of the conference, Mr Watum participated in a closed-door meeting with Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema, alongside his Zambian and Botswanan counterparts, the DRC’s ambassador to Zambia and the president of the Chamber of Mines.
The Congolese minister also toured exhibition stands showcasing investment opportunities and developments in the mining sector.
The DRC’s participation in ZAMII 2026 underscored its commitment to strengthening economic ties with Zambia and advancing a regional approach to mineral development.
For both countries, closer cooperation offers opportunities to expand local processing, attract investment, create skilled employment and increase the economic value generated by their mineral resources.
Turning these ambitions into tangible results will depend on effective policy coordination, investment in infrastructure, efficient cross-border trade and the development of competitive regional industries.
