Faith Nyasuguta
Belgium is moving to strengthen its footprint in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s lucrative mineral sector, signaling renewed interest from its former colonial power in one of Africa’s richest resource zones.
During a diplomatic visit to Kinshasa, Belgian Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prevot announced his country’s readiness to deepen engagement in Congo’s mining industry, home to vast deposits of copper, cobalt, lithium, uranium, and other strategic minerals. Prevot emphasized that Belgian companies have both the expertise and long-standing experience to play a bigger role in developing the sector, especially in value addition and ethical sourcing.
The DRC, though mineral-rich, has long struggled to attract diverse, sustainable investment due to political instability and a history of opaque deals. Now, Kinshasa is working to diversify its partnerships beyond dominant Chinese firms, which currently lead in copper and cobalt production through state-backed ventures.
Congo has already initiated talks with the United States, exploring a minerals-for-security agreement proposed by a Congolese senator. It’s also courting Saudi Arabian investors, seeking alternatives that can reduce overreliance on any single global power. According to senior official Marcellin Paluku, the goal is a more balanced mix of investment partners with different strategic interests.
While China maintains a firm grip on the sector, Belgian firms remain influential. Last year, Belgium-based materials tech firm Umicore signed a deal with Congo’s state miner Gecamines to export germanium concentrates to Europe, highlighting ongoing economic ties.
Prevot said Belgium’s interest in Congo isn’t purely transactional, distinguishing it from other foreign players. “We see the motivations of other global actors, which can at times be more transactional,” he noted. “Belgium’s approach is grounded in mutual benefit and long-term cooperation.”
As Congo opens the door to new investors, Belgium’s re-entry could help reshape the investment sector, potentially steering the sector toward more transparent and sustainable practices. For Kinshasa, welcoming familiar partners with technical know-how may be key to unlocking the true potential of its mineral wealth while guarding against exploitation.
With its eye on copper, cobalt, and the critical minerals of the future, Belgium is making it clear: it wants back in and this time, on fairer terms.
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