50 investors eye DRC mining opportunities amid fuel supply concerns

The investors, drawn from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Lebanon, India, the United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, and Germany, among other nations, toured the copper-rich areas of Kolwezi and Lualaba during an Equity-led mission, where large-scale mining operations continue to expand.

Despite strong interest, energy supply remains a major concern. Industry players stated that fuel shortages in Katanga and Lualaba are straining operations, with demand from mining, transport and construction outpacing distribution capacity.

“The region’s energy gap is relatively huge. We see opportunities in fuel depots, last-mile distribution, storage infrastructure and lubricants, and we’re planning to expand into the DRC,"  Elda Shaidi, Sales and Business Development Manager at Epson Energy Tanzania, stated. 

The gap, however, is also attracting investment interest in fuel storage, distribution and energy infrastructure.

At the same time, Paty Paterne Mushagalusa, Associate Director for Commercial Projects at Equity BCDC, hailed improved infrastructure in the country as a key anchor for meeting rapid demands. 

The Lobito Corridor was hailed for offering a shorter route to Atlantic ports, while the new Lualaba International Airport is set to enhance air transport for high-value and urgent cargo.

Major mining firms, including Kamoa-Kakula and CMOC Group, were highlighted for driving demand for logistics services such as warehousing, transport and distribution.

“Katanga and Lualaba continue to experience an unsteady fuel supply chain, coupled with rapidly growing demand driven by mining operations, transport, construction and expanding urban populations. Many see this as an opportunity,” said Ambrose Mwachilumo, CEO of Pyxida OLAM. 

The investors also lauded the DRC government for offering incentives, including tax breaks and a 10-year fiscal stability guarantee for those investing in the country. 

Growth in mining towns is also increasing demand for healthcare and food supplies, opening up more business opportunities.

Mpofu Vusi, Equity Group Director for Mining and Extractives, noted that their mission is to connect investors to lucrative opportunities and making the region more attractive for logistics and related investments. 

“Our goal as Equity is to connect capital to opportunity. When you visit the mines, the farms, the factories and the roads, you begin to see the real opportunity," Vusi noted.