Published on 20/05/2025
Democratic Republic of the Congo’s new Prime Minister, Judith Suminwa, has strongly defended the country’s natural wealth during ongoing talks in Washington.
She promised full transparency and no “selling off” of national resources, even as foreign powers show growing interest in Congo’s minerals.
Focus on Peace, Not Exploitation
Speaking from the Katanga Business Meeting 2025 (KBM), Suminwa addressed reporters after a panel on the Lobito Corridor, a major infrastructure route aimed at boosting regional trade and mining exports. But the real spotlight was on two issues: the conflict in Eastern Congo and mineral deals involving international players.
We’ve lost millions of lives in the East over nearly 30 years,” she said. “President Tshisekedi and our government are doing everything to bring peace through the Luanda, Nairobi, Doha processes, and even new discussions in Washington.”
She noted support from the UN, EU, and regional allies, but stressed that real change depends on implementing peace resolutions on the ground.
Mining Deals Under the Microscope
With the U.S. expected to finalize a critical minerals deal with the DRC by June, Suminwa made it clear:
No DRC resources will be sold off.
She promised any agreement would go through internal consultation with Congolese stakeholders, a move likely aimed at calming fears of neocolonial-style exploitation.
We’ve learned from past mistakes,” she added, referencing older contracts that favored foreign companies and weakened Congo’s control over its wealth.
Infrastructure & Energy Vision
Beyond politics, the Prime Minister talked about real development:
- Better railways and river routes
- New micro-hydro and solar power plants
- Boosting industrial transformation in mining
This aligns with Congo’s long-term plan to stop exporting only raw minerals and start processing them locally, keeping more profits and jobs inside the country.
Suminwa praised Interim Governor Fifi Masuka for pushing progress in Lualaba Province, which is a major mining hub. She said peace is the foundation of development and warned against division.
We are at war in the East. This is not the time to be distracted. We must stay united against the enemy,” she said.
This message is loud and clear: Congo wants peace, prosperity, and partnership, not plunder.
As the world races for minerals to fuel electric cars and tech, Congo is fighting to keep control of its resources and future
