The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is establishing a new armed mining security force, the Mining Guard, to protect mine sites and mineral supply chains. Backed by the United States and the United Arab Emirates, the initiative is expected to cost $100mn and deploy up to 20,000 personnel by 2028.
The move forms part of a broader US-DRC minerals partnership aimed at diversifying critical mineral sourcing away from China, granting US firms preferential access. Progress has been slowed by ongoing insecurity in the east, where the M23 rebel group controls key mining areas.
Rafael Kabengele, Inspector General of Mines, said the unit would strengthen governance, transparency, and mineral traceability across the sector.
Recruits will undergo a six-month training programme, replacing elements of the existing mining police. Investor interest includes the Chemaf acquisition and KoBold Metals’ exploration activity.
Follow on social media TikTok@tut0ughInstagram@tut0ugh Threads@tut0ugh X@tut0ugh YouTube@tut0ugh
tut0ugh 