The Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining authority said Tuesday that financing for a planned paramilitary unit to secure the country’s vast mineral sector would not come from any single foreign government, following speculation over the project’s funding.
In a statement, the General Inspectorate of Mines said the proposed “Mining Guard” would be funded through a mix of arrangements involving multiple partners rather than direct state backing.
“The financing mechanisms under consideration are based on diversified arrangements involving different types of actors,” the agency said, adding that discussions were ongoing to align the structure with national priorities.
The clarification comes a day after authorities announced plans to deploy more than 20,000 personnel across the country by 2028 to secure mining operations.
The unit is intended to oversee the entire mineral value chain in Democratic Republic of the Congo, including extraction sites, transportation routes and export points, in an effort to curb smuggling and improve governance.
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Security and governance focus
Officials say the initiative aims to strengthen transparency and traceability in a sector that is central to the country’s economy but has long been affected by insecurity and illicit activity.
The DRC is the world’s leading producer of cobalt and a major source of copper, minerals that are critical for global industries including electric vehicles and renewable energy.
However, weak oversight and armed group activity in some mining regions have undermined state revenues and raised concerns among investors.
The new force is expected to work alongside existing security structures to ensure compliance with regulations and protect key infrastructure.
Phased rollout
According to the mining authority, recruitment for the first contingent — estimated at between 2,500 and 3,000 personnel — is set to begin in May 2026.
Selected recruits will undergo a six-month training programme in collaboration with military institutions, with initial deployment expected by December.
The rollout will be phased, with priority given to key mining regions such as Grand Katanga and Grande Orientale before expanding nationwide by 2028.
Funding questions
The financing of the Mining Guard had raised questions following the initial announcement, particularly regarding potential foreign involvement.
By emphasising a diversified funding model, authorities appear to be seeking to reassure stakeholders that the initiative will remain aligned with national interests while benefiting from international cooperation.
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Analysts say such an approach could involve a combination of public funds, industry contributions and support from development partners.
Strategic sector under pressure
The move comes as the DRC seeks to maximise returns from its natural resources amid rising global demand for critical minerals.
Efforts to formalise the sector and improve oversight have intensified in recent years, as the government looks to increase revenues and strengthen its negotiating position with international mining companies.
At the same time, improving security conditions in mining areas is seen as essential for sustaining production and attracting investment.
Outlook
While the proposed Mining Guard could help address long-standing challenges in the sector, analysts caution that its effectiveness will depend on governance, accountability and coordination with existing institutions.
For now, authorities say further details on financing and implementation will be released as discussions progress, as the government moves ahead with one of its most ambitious efforts to reform the mining sector in recent years.
