UAE Expands Mining Ventures in Eastern DR Congo

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has signed a $1.9 billion deal with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to develop at least four mines in the eastern part of the country. The agreement, signed with state mining company Societe Aurifere du Kivu et du Maniema (Sakima), aims to construct industrial mines in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema. The deal follows a 25-year contract signed in December between the DRC and UAE firm Primera Group for export rights of artisanally mined ores. The initiative seeks to combat mineral smuggling and improve the livelihoods of informal miners in the region.