Fatshimetrie, October 31, 2024 – A major project for the development of the value chain of batteries and electric vehicles in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is attracting keen interest from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the African Import-Export Bank AFREXIMBANK. This joint mission reiterated its willingness to support and assist the country in the realization of this ambitious project.
During a recent meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Planning, Guylain Nyembo, the delegation presented the progress of the “Project for the development of the value chain of batteries and electric vehicles” in the DRC and stressed the importance of respecting the implementation schedule. This initiative, resulting from the 2021 “DRC Africa Business Forum”, aims to take advantage of the global energy transition by developing value chains linked to mining resources used in electric batteries such as cobalt, copper, lithium, manganese, nickel and graphite.
The collaboration between the ECA, AFREXIMBANK and the Congolese authorities is crucial for the establishment of a “Special Economic Zone” dedicated to batteries and electric vehicles. This structuring project requires effective coordination within the government, and the Ministry of Planning is identified as the key player to ensure this coordination.
Beyond the economic issues, this initiative is part of a sustainable development approach by promoting the use of electricity in transport systems and contributing to the decarbonization of economies. This is a major opportunity for the DRC to diversify its economy, strengthen its industrial sector and be part of the dynamics of the transition to green energy.
Faced with global challenges related to climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the development of the value chain for batteries and electric vehicles in the DRC appears to be an essential lever to support the country’s economic growth while contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transition. This approach demonstrates the Congolese authorities’ desire to embark on a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient development trajectory.