DRC: Katanga and the Challenges of Mineral Wealth

The central government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has shown greater interest in increasing control over mining in the distant southeastern province of Katanga. Though the province's infrastructure is relatively functional, poor transit links mean that most of Katanga's mining exports will be oriented southward to South Africa. Katanga's ambitious governor also poses a potential challenge to Congolese President Joseph Kabila. Meanwhile, foreign mining interests will continue to focus on Katanga despite barriers to entry in the market, as other DRC mineral hotspots provide an opportunity for investment further down the road.