The DRC-USA Forum held in Silicon Valley was the scene of important discussions between representatives of the Democratic Republic of Congo and American companies. During this event, the Minister of State for the Environment, Eve Bazaiba, and the Minister of Foreign Trade, Julien Paluku, launched an appeal to tech giants such as Apple, Tesla, and Google. The objective: to encourage these companies to deal directly with the DRC, and not through brokers.
This initiative by the Congolese authorities aims to put an end to the negative reputation that often surrounds the DRC on the international scene. Indeed, these brokers, according to Congolese officials, have set up a network aimed at unfairly tarnishing the image of the country among potential foreign investors. It is therefore essential to break these stereotypes and highlight the economic and mining assets of the DRC.
Beyond the call for direct collaboration, the ministers recalled the great qualities of the DRC, in particular its annual economic growth of 5% and its position as a world leader in the production of essential minerals such as cobalt and coltan. These resources are crucial in the manufacture of electric batteries, thus contributing to a real energy revolution.
Referring to the agricultural potential of the country, Julien Paluku stressed that the DRC also has significant opportunities in this sector, which could not only feed its population but also contribute to the world’s food supply. He also expressed his disappointment at the collaboration often established with commission agents rather than with real investors and producers.
The discussions were fruitful, with a clear openness of American economic operators to invest in the DRC. The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce committed to exploring the possibilities offered by the country, welcoming the facilities offered to foreign investors. In addition, the governors of the mining provinces of Haut-Katanga and Lualaba presented the multiple investment opportunities available in their respective regions.
In short, the DRC-US Forum highlighted the considerable economic potential of the DRC and paved the way for a fruitful direct collaboration with American companies. This event marks a turning point in the economic relations between the two countries, offering promising investment prospects for the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo.