• Lualaba province signed 16 memorandums of understanding with Emirati companies covering sectors including mining, agriculture, and infrastructure.

• Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the Emirati firms or the financial terms of the agreements.

• The talks reflect growing Gulf interest in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining, logistics, and energy sectors.

Lualaba Governor Fifi Masuka Saini announced on Monday, Jan. 19, the signing of 16 memorandums of understanding between the provincial government and Emirati companies. Officials signed the agreements at the Village des Congrès in Kolwezi. The memorandums cover sectors including agriculture, mining, healthcare, infrastructure, and tourism.

The governor said the partnerships aim to create “win-win” collaborations and align with President Félix Tshisekedi’s vision of development that delivers tangible benefits to local populations. However, authorities have not disclosed the content of the agreements or the identities of the companies involved.

Since 2025, the United Arab Emirates has shown growing interest in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in port infrastructure, mining, and energy. Abu Dhabi Ports has announced plans to invest in the ports of Matadi and Boma. The company has also expressed interest in the Lobito Corridor, dry ports, and road infrastructure linking Lualaba to Zambia and Angola.

The mining sector has also attracted Emirati capital. The IRH/IHC conglomerate has invested in the Bisie tin mine. Other projects target renewable energy development, led by Lone Star Ltd and Business Gate in Tshopo province.

These initiatives form part of a broader framework of cooperation between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Gulf countries. During the official visit of Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to Kinshasa on Nov. 21, 2025, both countries signed a visa-exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and special passports. The visit also produced five memorandums of understanding covering economic, legal, diplomatic, social, and sports cooperation.

The agreements include port development projects, inter-ministerial cooperation, and social programs, particularly in South Kivu.

This article was initially published in French by Boaz Kabeya (Bankable)

Adapted in English by Ange J. A. de BERRY QUENUM