ABOUT DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation ForumAccelerating the DRC’s Industrial Future Through Critical Minerals

The DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Forum is a focused leadership platform advancing the country’s transition from mineral extraction to fully integrated industrial value chains. The forum supports industrialisation, localisation and beneficiation by bringing together industry, investors and government to align policy, capital and execution.

With a strong focus on downstream processing, manufacturing and enabling infrastructure, the forum promotes practical collaboration and project-led engagement that supports sustainable industrial growth and long-term socio-economic development in the DRC.

Why Join the DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Webinar Series?

The 2026 webinar series brings together government leaders, mining operators, investors, financiers, manufacturers, project developers and industry experts to explore the opportunities shaping the DRC’s critical minerals and industrialisation journey.

Join the series to gain practical insights into emerging projects, policy and investment developments, beneficiation, local manufacturing, financing, energy, infrastructure and logistics, and understand how your organisation can participate in the DRC’s evolving critical minerals value chain

OUR PURPOSE

The DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Forum is the central hub for advancing a thriving critical minerals sector in the DRC. Our purpose is to provide a platform that drives investment, localisation, and value addition across the minerals value chain. We convene governments, mining operators, manufacturers, and investors to shape a transparent, responsible, and sustainable future for critical minerals development.

OUR PASSION

At the heart of the DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Forum lies a deep commitment to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s industrial future.

We are dedicated to advancing the DRC’s vision of becoming a leading hub for critical minerals development, not simply exporting resources, but transforming them locally to drive long-term economic growth. Our mission is to champion localisation, beneficiation, and industrialisation as the foundation of a sustainable, inclusive, and value-added critical minerals value chain.

By prioritising downstream processing, infrastructure development, and skills capacity, we aim to unlock the immense potential of the DRC’s mineral wealth and translate it into real opportunities for jobs, innovation, and industrial growth.

THE FACTS THAT MATTER VIEW OUR PARTNERS

Register your interest for 2027

The most impactful event dedicated to unlocking the DRC’s downstream critical minerals potential.

Facts That Matter

The critical minerals challenge is significant, but through collaboration and innovation, we can create meaningful change. Positive shifts are already underway, and with your support, the future can be brighter.

Missed Value from Raw Exports

The majority of the DRC’s cobalt and copper is still exported in raw or semi-processed form, limiting revenue, job creation, and local industrial growth.

Infrastructure Gaps Impact Local Processing

Limited industrial infrastructure, from energy supply to transport, continues to constrain the development of downstream processing and broader value addition in the critical minerals sector.

Skills Deficit Slows Industrialisation

The lack of advanced technical training and local manufacturing expertise hinders the growth of a competitive value-added battery metals sector.

Heavy Reliance on External Technology

The battery value chain in the DRC remains overly dependent on foreign technology and supply chains, weakening national ownership and long-term resilience.

Sustainability & ESG Pressures Are Growing

Investors, offtakers, and regulators are increasingly demanding traceable, ethical sourcing and responsible beneficiation practices from source countries like the DRC.

But change is coming...

Government Policy is Supporting Localisation

Reforms and regulatory measures are increasingly focused on promoting in-country processing, beneficiation and greater value retention from critical minerals.

Special Economic Zones are Enabling Industrial Development

Targeted SEZs linked to critical minerals are unlocking industrial infrastructure and attracting focused investment across processing and manufacturing activities.

Regional and Global Partnerships are Expanding

Cross-border collaboration, joint ventures and strategic partnerships are strengthening value chains and enabling technology transfer.

Industrial Skills Development is Gaining Momentum

Training and capacity-building programmes are expanding to support processing, refining, manufacturing and broader industrial capability.

Global Demand is Accelerating the Opportunity

Rising demand for responsibly produced and traceable critical minerals is reinforcing the case for the DRC to move beyond extraction and build competitive industrial capacity.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

The DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Webinar Series is built on the belief that informed dialogue, shared expertise and stronger collaboration can help accelerate the Democratic Republic of Congo’s transition from mineral extraction to an integrated, value-adding industrial economy.

Through focused webinars, the series aims to:

Explore opportunities for in-country processing, beneficiation and downstream manufacturing of cobalt, copper, lithium and other critical minerals
Examine the investment, policy and partnerships needed to support local content and scalable value-chain development
Share practical insights into the financing, energy, infrastructure and logistics required to advance industrial projects
Connect decision-makers and industry leaders working to strengthen the DRC’s economic resilience
Support a future in which the DRC leads not only as a mineral producer, but as an industrial and value-adding economy

Event FeaturesBuilding momentum towards the 2027 Forum

The DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Webinar Series keeps industry leaders connected through focused discussions on the projects, policies, investment and partnerships shaping the DRC’s industrial future.

Insights shaping critical minerals and industrialisation

Hear directly from government leaders, mining operators, investors, financiers and technical experts addressing the opportunities and practical requirements for moving from extraction to local value.

Stay informed on critical minerals policy, regulation and market developments
Explore opportunities across beneficiation, processing and manufacturing
Understand the energy, infrastructure and logistics required for industrial growth
Gain insight into project financing, investment readiness and delivery
Hear different industry perspectives on the DRC’s industrialisation priorities

Discover where the next opportunities are emerging

Each webinar will focus on the projects, partnerships and commercial opportunities developing across the DRC’s critical minerals value chain.

Discover emerging mining, processing and industrial projects
Understand where investment and technical expertise are required
Identify opportunities for investors, financiers, EPCs and solution providers
Explore regional partnerships, trade corridors and market access
Follow the developments building towards the Forum’s return in 2027

Partnering to Accelerate Industrial Development in the DRC

The DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Forum returns in 2027, bringing together government, mining operators, investors, financiers and industry partners to advance projects, partnerships and commercial opportunities across the critical minerals value chain.
The 2026 webinar series is building momentum towards the Forum, keeping the industry connected and the conversation moving throughout the year.

Become a Sponsor

Position Your Brand at the Centre of the DRC's Most Consequential Industrial Transformation

Place where the future of Africa's critical minerals industry is being financed, built, and transformed into industrial growth.

Choose from a variety of sponsorship options that align with your marketing goals

Explore essential topics and emerging opportunities across the full critical minerals value chain from mining and processing to market development.
Hear from government leaders, industry experts, and innovators sharing knowledge and strategies to advance DRC's role in the global critical minerals market.
Engage in interactive discussions and networking sessions, build new partnerships, and contribute to the future growth of DRC's critical minerals ecosystem.

Secure your sponsorship

Become a Delegate

Join the Leaders Shaping DRC's Critical Minerals Industrialisation

Gain insights, forge connections, and unlock opportunities across the full critical minerals value chain, from mine to market.

Gain insights from leaders advancing industrialisation and localisation
Unlock opportunities across the critical minerals value chain
Connect with mining operators, manufacturers, investors, and policymakers
Stay ahead of market trends and policy developments
Be part of DRC's critical minerals transformation
Provide visibility on policy, regulatory and investment frameworks supporting project development

EXPERT KNOWLEDGE IS PARAMOUNT

In the critical minerals sector, traditional boundaries are dissolving, shaped by established mining companies, external disruptors, innovative startups, and an engaged community of end-users. We advocate for an inclusive and sustainable evolution in critical minerals practices, ensuring every stakeholder is part of this transformative journey. Critical minerals are evolving. So are we and so are you.

Together we will make a difference.

View the Advisory board

VUKA Mining Team Meet The Team

Samukelo Madlabane

Event Director

samukelo.madlabane@wearevuka.com

In the mining sector, Samukelo’s unmatched leadership, passion, and expertise shine brightly. From development to management, he brings a unique perspective and sharp attention to detail to every aspect of the project. His commitment to excellence ensures that every stage of event planning is meticulously handled, promising an unforgettable experience for all involved.

Olivia Modisakeng

Event Manager

olivia.modisakeng@wearevuka.com

Olivia is an experienced event manager with a passion for bringing people together to drive meaningful conversations and change. With a love for creating impactful experiences, she thrives on delivering events that inspire action.

Gloria Mariane

Marketing Specialist

gloria.mariane@wearevuka.com

As a marketing professional, she thrives on building genuine connections within the industry and turning them into impactful relationship opportunities. Fluent in French and English, she seamlessly bridges cultures and conversations. Her skills and dedication make her a valuable asset to the team, contributing strategic insights that enrich every project.

Audrey Bading Mve

Programme & Stakeholder Director

Audrey.Bading@wearevuka.com

Audrey’s stakeholder management is marked by open communication, strategic collaboration, and a deep understanding of stakeholder needs. Under her leadership, DRC Mining Week thrives by fostering collaborative partnerships with its diverse stakeholder community.

Jean-Tite Oloumoussie

Exhibition & Sponsorship Director

jeantite.oloumoussie@wearevuka.com

Jean-Tite has successfully led commercial teams across African mining projects, showcasing his ability to tackle the industry’s unique challenges. He is committed to helping clients succeed by aligning with their goals in local mining markets.

Kudakwashe Tsingano

Exhibition & Sponsorship Executive

Kudakwashe.Tsingano@wearevuka.com

A seasoned salesperson passionate about making a positive impact in mining, Kuda thrives in events, driven by his love for travel and connecting with diverse people. His commitment to excellence and understanding of the mining landscape make him a valuable asset.

Rue Limekhaya

Registration Manager

Rue.Limekhaya@wearevuka.com

With over 20 years of experience, Rue ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors and delegates both online and on-site. Believing first impressions matter, she always puts the customer first.

Caleb Bongongo

Delegate Sales Executive

caleb.bongongo@wearevuka.com

Caleb’s deep understanding of the mining landscape makes him a valuable asset, well-equipped to navigate the industry’s complexities. With a proactive approach and client-focused mindset, Caleb is poised to drive growth and success in mining.

Anne-Lisse Calisse

Operations Manager

anne.calisse@wearevuka.com

Anne-Lisse is a seasoned operations professional with extensive expertise and a proven track record. She ensures smooth and efficient on-site operations and excels at process optimisation to enhance overall efficiency through her keen attention to detail and strategic mindset.

Jose Alino

Delegate Sales Executive

jose.alino@wearevuka.com

Jose is driven by a passion to make a positive impact in the mining sector. With a strong sales background and event industry knowledge, he thrives on connecting with diverse individuals. His enthusiasm for travel mirrors his dynamic commercial role and his eagerness to explore new opportunities.

``The DRC-Africa Battery Forum provided a vital platform for key stakeholders, including both government and private entities, who shared a keen interest in the sector. It has proven to be an invaluable resource, facilitating connections with key experts in the field. The organizers have done a splendid job.``

Adorin Amngaihnem Guite

General Manager

Arise IIP, India

2025 SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS

Request Further Information

Fill in the form below and our team will help you with information about the event, and answer any questions you have.

VUKA Mining Team THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES

Samukelo Madlabane

Event Director

Jiten Ramjee

Marketing Lead

Jiten is committed to leveraging marketing as a transformative force across Africa's dynamic landscape, bringing a unique blend of focus, passion, and continuous learning to every project. With a deep understanding of cultural nuances and shifting trends, he and his team craft innovative campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences.

Nazeerah Solomon

Marketing Specialist

Nazeerah’s strengths lie not only in building meaningful relationships but also in strategically implementing them within broader marketing strategies. Her skills and unwavering dedication make her a valuable asset to the team, injecting fresh ideas and contributing to impactful strategic partnerships.

Audrey Bading Mve

Programme & Stakeholder Manager

Jean-Tite Oloumoussie

Exhibition & Sponsorship Director

Kudakwashe Tsingano

Exhibition & Sponsorship Executive

Rue Limekhaya

Registration Manager

Jose Alino

Delegate Sales Executive

Caleb Bongongo

Delegate Sales Executive

Anne-Lisse Calisse

Operations Manager

Yolanda Rashai

Marketing Coordinator

Yolanda is an ambitious and creative marketing professional passionate about strategic brand leadership and marketing research. Specialising in compelling social media content and brand storytelling, she blends creativity with strategy to achieve impactful results.

ABOUT DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation ForumAccelerating the DRC’s Industrial Future Through Critical Minerals

Why Join the DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Webinar Series?

OUR PURPOSE

OUR PASSION

Register your interest for 2027

Facts That Matter

But change is coming...

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Event FeaturesBuilding momentum towards the 2027 Forum

Insights shaping critical minerals and industrialisation

Discover where the next opportunities are emerging

Partnering to Accelerate Industrial Development in the DRC

Become a Sponsor

Become a Delegate

EXPERT KNOWLEDGE IS PARAMOUNT

VUKA Mining Team Meet The Team

2025 SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS

Request Further Information

VUKA Mining Team THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES

DRC Critical Minerals & Industrialisation Forum

CONTACT

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