The Democratic Republic of the Congo will play a central role in the upcoming Makutano Mining forum, set to take place in Kinshasa from November 22-25, 2026. The event, under the patronage of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, will bring together high-profile attendees, including Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, public officials, mining leaders, investors, and financial institution representatives.
Makutano Mining aims to accelerate the industrialization of producing countries and increase local value creation from mineral resources. The forum will convene various stakeholders across the mining value chain, including mining operators, public officials, banks, development institutions, and energy companies. Discussions will focus on key topics such as taxation, revenue sharing, transportation corridors, and electric supply.
The event will also address critical issues like environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements, artisanal mining, employment, skills development, innovation, and women's participation in the sector. A Deal Room will facilitate closed-door negotiations, culminating in a "Signature Moment" to formalize agreements reached during the forum.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a significant player in the global mining industry, particularly in the production of critical minerals. In 2025, the country accounted for approximately 73% of global cobalt production and ranked second in copper production worldwide.
The Makutano network, founded in 2015 by Nicole Sulu, comprises African leaders, investors, and public officials. Its previous eleven editions have brought together six heads of state and 5,500 decision-makers. For its 12th edition, the network is dedicating its forum to the mining sector and industrialization of African producing countries.
The Makutano Mining forum is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions and forge partnerships that can drive growth and development in the mining sector. With its focus on industrialization and local value creation, the event has the potential to shape the future of the industry in Africa.
Key attendees will have the opportunity to engage in high-level discussions and explore potential collaborations. The event's organizers are optimistic about the potential outcomes, citing the success of previous Makutano editions.
Key points
- The Democratic Republic of the Congo will host the first edition of Makutano Mining in Kinshasa from November 22-25, 2026.
- The forum aims to accelerate industrialization and increase local value creation from mineral resources in African producing countries.
- The event will bring together high-profile attendees, including heads of state, mining leaders, investors, and financial institution representatives.
