** Revolution in mining extraction: The Democratic Republic of Congo crosses the milestone of 3 million tonnes of copper for 2024 **
The Democratic Republic of Congo (R.D.C) has just achieved a historic feat by reaching the unprecedented threshold of 3.1 million tonnes of copper exported in 2024. This event, revealed by the Congolese ministry of mines in its statistical report of March 10, reflects not only the rise of the Congolese mining industry, but also its impact on the national and regional economy. This increase of approximately 13 % compared to the previous year could well appear as a turning point in the socio-economic history of the R.D.C, a country rich in resources but confronted with structural challenges.
### Historic export growth
In a global context where copper has become an essential metal for energy transition – especially in the manufacture of batteries for electric vehicles and renewable technologies – the R.D.C is positioned as an essential player. The country, which houses around 50 % of the world’s world reserves, is about to become not only the largest copper producer in Africa but also a strategic pillar for evolutionary economies in search of sustainable basic materials.
### Dynamics of the mining industry
The achievement of this record can be assigned to several factors: the increase in direct foreign investments, the improvement of infrastructure and extraction technologies, and evolving mining governance. However, it would be reductive to perceive this growth as a simple adjustment in the sector. It raises deeper questions about the sustainability of this growth and the social and environmental implications that result from it.
### The inevitable paradox
However, behind this explosion of figures hides a disturbing paradox: the richness of natural resources of the R.D.C still coexists with extreme poverty. According to reports from various NGOs, more than 70 % of the population still lives below the poverty line. The enrichment of state funds is not always translated into tangible improvements in the daily life of the Congolese. The integration of fair redistribution processes of the wealth generated by mining is more than ever necessary to avoid social revolt or regional conflicts.
### The inventory of customs and economic operations
That said, the socio-economic climate remains volatile. Goma, for example, continues to be under military occupation, which raises concerns about the management of customs operations which are already undermined. International exchanges and the fluidity of exports can be hampered by circumstances of political instability, relegating the ambitions of economic growth to square one. This observation highlights the importance of a stable and transparent regulatory framework to support the current dynamics.
### Energy and electrification: a promising future
In addition, the National Agency for Electrification and Energy Services in Rural and Péri-Urbains (ANSER) has a crucial role to play in this mining and economic development strategy. The finalization of 22 projects over five years aims to improve access to electricity, a fundamental pillar for the development of a modern economy. Reliable energy will facilitate the transformation of gross resources into locally finished products, thus creating a value chain that could promote employment and stabilize communities.
### An economic recovery in the future
The timid resumption of economic activities at the Tchomia shopping center, sixty kilometers from Bunia, evokes the potential of a commercially conducive dynamic if we integrate and values local labor. The link between mining activity, electrification and local development strategy is to be considered as a model for other regions of the country.
### Conclusion and perspectives
In short, recent advances in the R.D.C in copper export must arouse a deep reflection on the way in which this industry can not only be a vector of growth, but also an engine of social change. If the country manages to transform this wealth into opportunities for all its citizens, one could witness a significant upheaval of its economic momentum. The key will lie in the commitment of government and private actors to forge an alliance in the service of sustainable development. The R.D.C has the resources necessary to eradicate poverty and offer a bright future to its population. This challenge will be the real test of its resilience and its collective will to change.
To remain informed about the evolution of the country’s economic situation and on the implications of the rise of the mining industry, listen to the program presented by Jocelyne Musau on Fatshimemetry, a space dedicated to in -depth economic analysis.