The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a program to improve the country's geological and mining knowledge. The Program of Aerogeophysical and Geological Mapping of the DRC (PC2G-RDC) was launched on October 5, 2026, in Kinshasa. The program aims to collect data on the country's geological formations using eight aircraft. The initiative is coordinated by the National Geological Service of Congo (SGN-C) under the Ministry of Mines.
The program is financed by the Mining Fund for Future Generations (FOMIN) and executed by the Spanish firm Xcalibur Multiphysics Group SL. Over 36 months, the eight aircraft will fly over several regions of the country, including Kongo central, Kwango, Kwilu, Grand Kasaï, and Grand Katanga. The aircraft will conduct magnetic, radiometric, gravimetric, and electromagnetic surveys. The collected data will be processed and interpreted, and then complemented by geological fieldwork.
The program aims to provide a more accurate map of the country's subsurface. The knowledge gathered will help the government make informed decisions and provide investors with a better understanding of the country's geological characteristics. The program also includes a component on capacity building, with Congolese geologists, researchers, technicians, and students to benefit from training.
The Minister of Mines, Louis Watum Kabamba, launched the program, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in exploration. He stated that the program is an investment to facilitate future exploration operations. The program will help reduce the cost, risk, and time required for exploration. Watum also highlighted the need to strengthen national expertise in geology and geophysics.
The program is a significant step in the country's mining sector development. The data collected will help identify areas with potential mineral resources. The program will also contribute to the creation of jobs and value in the sector. The government hopes that the program will attract more investors to the country's mining sector.
The program's launch is a positive development for the country's economy. The mining sector is a significant contributor to the country's GDP. The program will help increase transparency and accountability in the sector. The government has been working to improve the business climate and attract more investment.
The program's success will depend on effective implementation and coordination. The government will need to ensure that the data collected is accurate and reliable. The program's findings will also need to be made available to stakeholders, including investors and local communities. The program's impact will be closely watched by stakeholders.
Key points
- The program aims to improve the country's geological and mining knowledge using eight aircraft.
- The program is financed by the Mining Fund for Future Generations (FOMIN) and executed by Xcalibur Multiphysics Group SL.
- The program includes a component on capacity building for Congolese geologists, researchers, technicians, and students.
