Congo to enforce local ownership rule for copper, cobalt miners

Published: Feb 10, 2026 17:25

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Democratic Republic of Congo will enforce a long-dormant rule requiring local employee ownership for mines in a move that may rebalance shareholdings in some of the world’s biggest copper and cobalt producers.
In a letter dated Jan. 30 and addressed to miners of all metals in the country, Mines Minister Louis Watum said firms must demonstrate that 5% of their share capital is held by Congolese employees.
Companies have until July 31, 2026 to submit proof that they’re complying with the directive, according to the letter, which was posted by the ministry on X on Sunday and confirmed by a ministry official. Watum didn’t immediately respond to a call and text message requesting comment on Monday.

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