The Democratic Republic of the Congo has announced plans to deploy a specialised paramilitary “mining guard” unit to strengthen security across its mineral-rich regions and curb illicit exploitation.
According to the Government, on Monday, April 27, an initial investment of approximately $100 million will fund six months of training and equipment for recruits.
The first cohort—estimated between 2,500 and 3,000 personnel—will be deployed across 22 provinces, with training scheduled from June to December 2026.
The initiative will prioritize key mining zones, particularly in Greater Katanga and Grande Orientale, with full operational coverage expected by the end of 2027. Authorities aim to expand the force to more than 20,000 personnel nationwide by 2028.
The move comes amid persistent insecurity in eastern regions, where vast mineral resources—including coltan deposits around Rubaya—have long fuelled conflict involving armed groups such as the March 23 Movement.
Inspector General of Mines Rafael Kabengele said the objective is to restore transparency, strengthen governance and eliminate illicit practices within the mining value chain, a sector central to the country’s economic stability.