For the first time in the history of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining sector, manganese will soon be commercially exploited in Kongo-Central province—an area traditionally known for its oil reserves.
The announcement was made during the 43rd Council of Ministers meeting on Friday, May 9, 2025, through a briefing by Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakapomba.
The project will be carried out in Luozi territory by Asia Mineral Limited, a Japanese company ranked among the world’s top manganese exporters.
The firm is recognized for its expertise in the extraction, processing, and marketing of this critical mineral.
The Congolese government views this initiative as a milestone in advancing mining sector reforms and governance.
It aims to diversify both the country’s mining partners and production regions, while promoting local mineral processing and broader socioeconomic benefits.
“This project is a key example of how we are diversifying both mining provinces and mineral outputs, while also creating opportunities for regional development outside zones of high insecurity,” said Minister Pakapomba.
Exploration is scheduled to begin on May 21, 2025, with projected annual production reaching 2 million tonnes.
Rich in hydrocarbons, Kongo-Central is now poised for broader economic development with the introduction of manganese mining.
Unlike the eastern provinces affected by armed conflict, this region offers a stable and favorable environment for investment.
Manganese, essential for steel production, also plays a vital role in the global energy transition, particularly in battery manufacturing and industrial processes.
Its development presents a strategic opportunity for the DRC to expand its influence in global mining beyond cobalt and copper.
This initial exploitation could serve as a catalyst for similar ventures, reinforcing the DRC’s position in the international mining industry.
