Rising Tensions in DRC's Cobalt Mining Sector Amid Regulatory Changes
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces escalating conflicts between artisanal miners and industrial mining companies due to new regulations. With over three million employed in mining, the sector is critical for the DRC's economy, contributing over 30% to national revenue amidst widespread poverty affecting 85.3% of the population.
On December 19, 2025, a decree was signed by Louis Watum, the DRC Minister of Mining, to regulate the artisanal cobalt and copper industries, leading to significant unrest among local miners. The DRC is home to 70% of global cobalt reserves, essential for electric vehicle production and other industries, yet it has a poorly organized mining sector where artisanal miners often lack official sites.
AI-curated by TheiaConflicts have arisen due to the removal of artisanal workers favoring industrial operations, leading to violence and casualties. The mining industry, accounting for over 90% of the country's economic activity, is under strain as companies like Kamoto Copper Company and COMMUS report attacks on workers and transport. Despite its economic importance, the government offers no sustainable solutions, and poverty remains pervasive, with 85.3% of the population living in extreme poverty.
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