The Democratic Republic of Congo is advancing plans to establish a specialized security force to oversee its mining operations. In collaboration with a private contractor, authorities aim to train 20,000 personnel tasked with safeguarding major mining sites, regulating artisanal extraction, and enhancing mineral export traceability.
While the identity of the private partner remains undisclosed, preparations are underway for an intensive training program scheduled to begin in September. The first deployment of this paramilitary unit is expected in Katanga by January 2027.
Historically, both military and police forces have been stationed around mining zones. However, in provinces like Lualaba, private security firms also play a critical role. Local agents, recruited and trained by registered domestic companies, often supplement official security measures.
Henri Kasongo Mutata, coordinator of the Diocesan Commission on Natural Resources and Environment in Lualaba, explains the current security framework:
“Mining site security here in Lualaba relies on the Mining Police, supplemented by private security firms. Mining operators frequently hire these guards to protect their concessions.”
transforming conflict zones into secure assets
The Democratic Republic of Congo holds vast mineral reserves, including copper, cobalt, tin, coltan, gold, lithium, and zinc. Yet, instability in the eastern regions—particularly in rebel-held areas like the Rubaya coltan mine—disrupts operations and undermines governance. Crispine Ngena, an ecofeminist activist focused on women’s involvement in resource management, highlights the challenges:
“The primary obstacle is the militarization of mining sites. Without oversight, human rights violations and regulatory breaches persist. Can the Congolese state reduce criminal activity in these zones and ensure foreign companies comply with labor and environmental standards—especially for indigenous communities and women?”
Meanwhile, private security teams linked to Erik Prince, founder of the former Blackwater corporation, have been deployed in Lualaba and Tshopo provinces near Kolwesi and Kisangani. Their stated objectives include securing mining infrastructure, improving tax collection, and combating smuggling.