Explore more Articles in
DR Congo
As Ebola in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) declared over, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) calls for investment...
Download logo
Following the Ministry of Health's declaration that the 16th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is officially over, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is calling for an urgent scale-up of community-based surveillance, stronger infection prevention and control, and long-term investment in local health systems to prevent a resurgence.
IFRC warns that the immediate post-outbreak period remains critical, particularly in communities already strained by cholera, mpox, and fragile health infrastructure. To reduce the risk of flare-ups, the DRC Red Cross, with support from IFRC and other National Societies, focuses on strengthening community-based surveillance to rapidly identify and report unusual illnesses or deaths.
Ariel Kestens, IFRC Head of Country Cluster Delegation in Kinshasa, says:
“Containing an Ebola outbreak is a critical milestone, but the real test begins now. Communities need continued support to detect health threats early. Investing in community-based surveillance, local health workers and stronger systems today is the best protection against potential outbreaks.”
Communities remain central to stopping future flare-ups
DRC Red Cross volunteers were instrumental in containing the outbreak and will remain at the forefront during the post-outbreak phase. Their ongoing work includes early detection, close coordination with local leaders, hygiene promotion, and countering misinformation, a community-driven approach especially vital in remote areas with limited formal health services.
Gregoire Mateso, National President of the DRC Red Cross, says:
“Frontline communities and Red Cross volunteers have once again demonstrated what early action can achieve. However, the cycle of epidemics will continue if there is no long-term investment. It is time to stop retreating and instead strengthen our preparedness based on the lessons learned.”
During the outbreak, the DRC Red Cross conducted 118 safe and dignified burials and deployed more than 500 volunteers trained in epidemic control. Risk communication and community engagement activities reached over 236,000 people, and hygiene promotion and decontamination support benefited more than 78,000 people. The Red Cross also provided psychosocial support to 2,500 people, while national vaccination efforts immunized more than 47,500 individuals, demonstrating the crucial impact of local action in protecting communities.
Need for stronger preparedness
Despite swift containment, the outbreak exposed weaknesses in local health systems, including limited isolation capacity, shortages of protective equipment, and gaps in infection prevention and control. Concurrent cholera and mpox outbreaks further strained resources, while vulnerable groups, especially women, children, and displaced families, faced heightened risks.
These gaps underline the urgency of long-term resilience and stronger community-based preparedness. The IFRC is calling on partners and donors to join efforts in scaling up community-based surveillance, strengthen infection prevention and control, reinforce water, sanitation, and hygiene systems, support and train local volunteers, the first responders in remote areas, and expand psychosocial and protection services.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).Congo’s Upstream Expansion Signals New Era for Central Africa’s Energy Future
Download logo
The Republic of Congo is entering a period of rapid growth, with upstream expansion across both the oil and natural gas industries positioning the country as a strategic anchor for Central Africa's energy development. With the start of operations at Congo LNG Phase 2, goals to reach 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) in oil production and bold reforms across its regulatory landscape, the Republic of Congo is sending a strong message to foreign investors: Central Africa is open for business and committed to realizing large-scale projects.
Natural Gas: A Cornerstone of Congo's Energy Strategy
Natural gas has emerged as a cornerstone of Congo's energy strategy, with recent advancements in LNG development reflecting the nation's commitment to bringing projects online efficiently and at pace. Brought onstream six months ahead of schedule and 35 months after construction began, the Congo LNG Phase 2 project began operations in December 2025. Part of the broader Congo LNG development, phase two increases the project's capacity by 2.4 million tons per annum (mtpa), bringing the total output to 3 mtpa. Phase two features three production platforms as well as the Scarabeo 5 unit - dedicated to gas treatment and compression - and the Nguya FLNG unit. First cargo is expected to be exported in early 2026.
The milestone comes shortly after the country became an LNG exporter, with the start of Congo LNG Phase 1 - the country's first major offshore gas development - achieved in late-2023. The commissioning of phase two marks an extraordinary acceleration, reflecting a national drive to position gas as a catalyst for growth. Beyond Congo LNG, advancements are being made at the Bango Kayo project - spearheaded by China's Wing Wah and incorporating an integrated gas monetization component. Developed in several phases, the project will produce LNG, LPG, butane and propane for the domestic market, with scalable gas infrastructure unlocking up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas over 25 years.
The Quest for 500,000 BPD
Congo's oil sector has long-been a critical contributor to the regional economy, but the push toward 500,000 bpd represents a new level of ambition. Several developments are underway to achieve this goal. TotalEnergies is investing $600 million in exploration and production, with a focus on the Moho Nord field. Trident Energy is expanding its portfolio following its acquisition of Chevron's Congolese assets in 2024, while Perenco is advancing the Kombi 2 platform, with operations on track for early-2026.
Wing Wah is also gearing up for greater production with the September 2025 signing of a $23 billion hydrocarbon agreement for the development of the Bango Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo permits. The deal aims to ramp-up output across the permits to more than 1.3 barrels by 2050. This upstream resurgence comes at a time when Central Africa is facing widening demand for secure energy supplies. Congo's production growth strengthens the region's ability to meet both export commitments and domestic needs.
Regulation Fuels Opportunity
The Republic of Congo's upstream momentum is being fueled by policy frameworks. In the gas sector, the country is establishing a Gas Master Plan, offering a clear development framework for the sector. Speaking at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025, the country's Minister of Hydrocarbon Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, also announced that Congo's new Gas Code will be launched this year, creating greater clarity and providing long-term governance. These policies complement the anticipated launch of a licensing round. While faced with delays, the upcoming round is expected to feature strategic block opportunities, supporting forays by international players. Platforms such as AEW - which returns to Cape Town from 12-16 October 2026 - further supports foreign investment by promoting opportunities, connecting players and showcasing Congo's energy strategy to a global audience.
“The Republic of Congo is showing the continent what is possible when you combine political will, strong partnerships and a commitment to monetizing the resources you have today - not 10 years from now. Billions of dollars in oil and gas opportunities are being unlocked and Congo's success is strengthening the entire Central African region. This is the kind of bold development Africa needs,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Marriott International Enters the Democratic Republic of the Congo with the Opening of Two Hotels in Kinshasa
Marriott International (www.Marriott.com) has made its debut in The Democratic Republic of the Congo with the openings of Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa and Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa. The launch of these two distinct hotels introduces globally recognised brands to Kinshasa, offering tailored experiences for business and leisure travellers in one of Africa's most vibrant and strategically important capital cities.
Set along the Congo River, Kinshasa is a dynamic hub for diplomacy, regional trade, and the arts. With a population of over 17 million, the city offers travellers a compelling mix of culture, commerce, and connectivity - from its lively music and culinary scenes to its bustling markets and proximity to Central Africa's natural wonders.
“Entering The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a proud milestone for Marriott International as we continue to grow our footprint across Africa,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “With the openings of Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa and Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa, we're excited to offer travellers and Marriott Bonvoy members two distinct ways to experience our trusted service and signature brand experiences in this dynamic market.”
Both hotels are managed by third-party management company SARV Management LLC.
“Working with Marriott International to bring world-class hospitality to the capital supports the city's growing appeal as a destination for business and leisure, while contributing to local employment and skills development. We believe these openings will play a meaningful role in strengthening the tourism sector and showcasing the vibrancy and potential of Kinshasa on a global stage,” said Karim Minsariya, Director, SAMAY Hospitality SARL, the ownership company for both hotels.
Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa
Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa (https://apo-opa.co/48evOe2) offers a unique stay that blends contemporary comfort with authentic local character and personalised service. Ideally situated in an upscale neighbourhood near the Congo River, the hotel is surrounded by government offices, corporate headquarters, and premium malls, and is just minutes from the city centre. Its 88 thoughtfully designed guest rooms — many with balconies and scenic views — are tailored to meet the needs of today's business, diplomatic, and leisure travellers, providing a welcoming base from which to explore Kinshasa.
The hotel's bright atrium lobby brings together natural light, local artwork, and greenery, offering a welcoming space that pays tribute to the building's former life as a school. Within this space sits the hotel's signature indoor pool, a first of its kind in the city, offering a serene retreat after a busy day. Guests can dine at Marché 15, an all-day restaurant celebrating international and local flavours, or unwind at the Lobby Bar, a relaxed space ideal for informal meetings and evening drinks. Additional amenities include a well-equipped fitness centre, and a 56-square-metre conference room designed for small meetings and private gatherings.
Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa
Located in the heart of Kinshasa's central business district, Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa (https://apo-opa.co/4pBfJou) offers 134 modern guest rooms. Whether travellers are visiting Kinshasa for work or fun, the hotel caters to their needs with its approachable design, and stylish comfort.
Reflecting the brand's signature style, the hotel offers today's independent travellers the Four Comfort Bed, fast and free Wi-Fi, and an energising start to the day with fresh coffee and breakfast options. After a productive day, guests can unwind over a meal at Lufira Restaurant, sip a signature cocktail at the stylish 83 Sky Lounge Bar, or enjoy a refreshing local beer on tap through the brand's Best Brews™ programme.
Additional amenities include a 24-hour fitness centre, and a rooftop outdoor pool with panoramic city views. Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa also boasts approximately 230 square metres of meeting space across four rooms, each equipped with modern conference facilities and advanced audiovisual technology, making it a prime venue for corporate meetings, workshops, and social events.
Both Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa and Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International's award-winning travel programme. Members can earn and redeem points across an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, enjoy exclusive experiences through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unlock benefits such as free nights, mobile check-in, and Elite status recognition.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..Media contact:
Birgit Deibele
Senior Director of Communications – Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International
Email: Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com
Protea Hotels by Marriott:
Protea Hotels by Marriott® is the leading hospitality brand in Africa and it is one of the most widely recognised brands on the continent with over 60 hotels across 10 countries including Angola, Botswana, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Protea Hotels by Marriott® is ideal for both business and leisure travellers by offering properties in primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations. Each hotel offers modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-appointed rooms, ensuring global standards for a high quality, relaxed and successful stay.
About Four Points by Sheraton®:
Four Points by Sheraton is a global brand with over 365 hotels in over 45 countries and territories. At Four Points, travel is reinvented where timeless classics are woven with modern details, paired with genuine service in a casual environment around the world. Four Points hotels can be found in the heart of urban centers, near the beach, by the airport, or in the suburbs. Each hotel offers a familiar place to kick back and relax with an authentic sense of the local, where guests can watch sports and enjoy the brand's Best Brews® program. Four Points is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments (https://apo-opa.co/3Ma51H3) and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. To learn more about Four Points, visit us online https://Four-Points.Marriott.com/.
DRC Mining Week wins “Event of the Year” at the Katanga Awards
Download logo
DRC Mining Week, organised annually by VUKA Group (https://WeAreVUKA.com/) in Lubumbashi, has been awarded “Event of the Year” at the Katanga Awards, reaffirming its status as the leading platform for mining investment, project development, and economic transformation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
According to VUKA Group, the recognition comes at a particularly meaningful moment, as DRC Mining Week celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025. This milestone reflects two decades of partnership, dialogue, and sector advancement in the DRC's mining heartland.
For over a decade, DRC Mining Week has been the country's most influential meeting point for investment mobilisation, infrastructure development, and public-private collaboration. Each edition brings together:
- international and local investors
- mining operators and juniors
- project developers
- financial institutions
- OEMs and EPCs
- government ministries and regulators
- and longstanding institutional partners, including the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC) and the Chamber of Mines of the DRC
all aligned around unlocking the full potential of the DRC's world-class mineral wealth.
2025: Record achievement
This year's 20th anniversary edition marked a historic milestone with:
- 16,500+ total attendees
- 1,115 delegates, including
- 129 VIPs
- 88 speakers
- 300+ sponsors and exhibitors
- Participation from 50+ countries
DRC Mining Week also featured 25+ high-level conference sessions focused on industrialisation, energy security, infrastructure expansion, beneficiation, and sustainable development—reinforcing its position as the DRC's most influential platform for mining investment and sector growth.
Honouring national leadership and strategic partners
VUKA Group recognises and appreciates the continued support of the DRC Government and its key institutions. Their collaboration plays a pivotal role in shaping the vision, stability, and long-term impact of DRC Mining Week.
During her keynote address in Lubumbashi in June this year, DRC's Prime Minister, H.E. Mrs Judith Suminwa Tuluka described the 20th edition of DRC Mining Week as “a moment to celebrate the remarkable progress our mining sector has achieved.”
DRC's new Mining Minister, H.E. Louis Watum Kabamba, an industry pioneer and himself a veteran attendee of DRC Mining Week over the years, is known for calling the event “the place to be to do business in the DRC,” and he regularly invites industry stakeholders to DRC Mining Week when addressing global mining gatherings.
VUKA Group also recognises the invaluable partnership of the FEC and the Chamber of Mines, whose collaboration and guidance have strengthened the platform over many years.
Shared achievement for the mining community
“This award belongs to the mining and investment community we serve,” says Samukelo Madlabane, Event Director for DRC Mining Week. “Our purpose has always been clear—to create a trusted platform where capital, expertise, and opportunity converge to support the DRC's long-term economic development. Celebrating our 20th anniversary with record growth and now this award is a testament to the strength, unity, and ambition of our community.”
Recognising sponsors and supporters
Madlabane adds:
“We extend our sincere appreciation to our Sponsors, Exhibitors, Media Partners, and Supporting Associations. Your continued commitment has become a cornerstone of DRC Mining Week.
“These partnerships are more than visibility—they actively shape the event into a platform for progress, opportunity, and impactful dialogue.
“To all our sponsors and exhibitors: Your contributions are the engine of DRC Mining Week's success. This milestone year would not have been possible without your dedication, innovation, and steadfast support.”
Looking ahead to 2026
Madlabane continues: “With preparations underway for the 21st edition of DRC Mining Week (17–19 June 2026 at the Pullman Lubumbashi Grand Karavia Hotel), VUKA Group remains committed to elevating the platform's role in connecting stakeholders, driving investment, and supporting sustainable industrial development in the DRC.
About VUKA Group's commitment
Through DRC Mining Week and the DRC–Africa Battery Metals Forum, VUKA Group continues to invest in platforms that unlock:
- long-term investment opportunities
- local market development
- project growth
- infrastructure expansion
- industrial value creation across the Congolese economy
Furthermore, VUKA remains dedicated to supporting the DRC's transformation into a globally competitive mining and industrial powerhouse.
DRC Mining Week dates and venue 2026:
- Expo and conference: 17–19 June 2026
- Location: The Pullman Grand Karavia Hotel, Lubumbashi, DRC
Media Contact:
Jiten Ramjee
VUKA Group
jiten.ramjee@wearevuka.com
Follow us:
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4oh0qAh
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Kc4iVc
LinkedIN: https://apo-opa.co/3LXOYfl
Website: http://www.DRCMiningWeek.com
About VUKA Group
VUKA Group (formerly Clarion Events Africa) (https://WeAreVUKA.com/) is a leading Cape Town-based and multi-award-winning organiser of exhibitions, conferences and digital events across the continent in the infrastructure, energy, mining, mobility, green economy and retail sectors. Well-known events by VUKA Group include DRC Mining Week (https://apo-opa.co/4ieCdZS), DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum (https://apo-opa.co/4il0pdl), Nigeria Mining Week (https://apo-opa.co/4psqPMk), Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4oY9JGg), Africa's Green Economy Summit (https://apo-opa.co/44iVIuw), Carbon Markets Africa Summit (https://apo-opa.co/49C44B6), Smarter Mobility Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4rfp7zG), ECOM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/47X2use) and CEM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4pwK6wo).
Switzerland: Francophonie and prospects for peace at heart of Ignazio Cassis’ meetings in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda
Download logo
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the head of the FDFA, has just spent two days in East and Central Africa. Peace efforts to resolve the crisis in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) formed the focal point of his visit to Kinshasa on Friday 21 November. On Thursday 20 November, Mr Cassis inaugurated the new Swiss embassy in Rwanda, a symbol of the growing bilateral ties between the two countries, and took part in the 46th Francophonie Ministerial Conference.
The peace processes in the Great Lakes region were at the forefront of Mr Cassis' discussions in the DRC and Rwanda. On Friday in Kinshasa, he met DRC Minister of Foreign Affairs Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. In addition, he met with civil society and Catholic church representatives to discuss the situation in the DRC's east and the ongoing efforts to promote peace. The visit was also an opportunity for Mr Cassis to highlight Switzerland's expertise in mediation and its willingness to contribute to these efforts.
Switzerland has been active in the east of the DRC since the 1990s under its international cooperation remit. It prioritises humanitarian aid for civilians affected by the ongoing conflicts in the region and strengthening their capacity to tackle the challenging situation. Switzerland has committed CHF 550 million to the Great Lakes region since 2009. Earlier this year, following the military offensive by the M23 militia, Switzerland was the only bilateral actor to have maintained its presence in the east of the DRC with its cooperation office in Bukavu. The DRC is the second largest country in Africa by surface area and one of the world's richest in terms of natural resources.
Strengthening ties with Rwanda
On Thursday 20 November, Mr Cassis was in Rwanda to take part in the Francophonie Ministerial Conference and to inaugurate Switzerland's new representation in Kigali, which has been upgraded to an embassy. He met with his Rwandan counterpart, Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, and paid a courtesy visit to Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva. In addition to discussing the issue of regional peace, the visit was an opportunity to mark the deepening of relations between the two countries. (see press release dated 20 November link)
Switzerland's activities in the region are based on the Africa Strategy 2025–28, which focuses on managing armed conflicts and protecting particularly vulnerable population groups in Central and East Africa. In addition to reinforcing democracy and the rule of law, Switzerland's priorities in the region include the continuing diversification of relations in fields such as business, science and digitalisation.
La Francophonie must remain effective and useful
This year's 46th Francophonie Ministerial Conference, entitled Thirty years on from the Beijing Conference: the contribution of women in the French-speaking world, was an opportunity to take stock of the advances made and the progress still to be achieved in the field of gender equality. Federal Councillor Cassis highlighted the challenges facing the International Organisation of La Francophonie (IOF), which brings together 90 countries. In a polarised world marked by mistrust, La Francophonie must become a space of trust and cooperation that encourages linguistic diversity and solidarity. To achieve this, the organisation must remain effective and useful.
The ministerial meeting also provided an opportunity to meet with the foreign ministers of Cambodia, whose country is taking over the presidency of La Francophonie, and Senegal, as well as France's Minister Delegate and Representative for La Francophonie.
Mr Cassis was accompanied on his trip to Rwanda and the DRC by a parliamentary delegation comprising two members of the foreign affairs committees: member of the Council of States Petra Gössi (FDP/Schwyz) and member of the National Council Piero Marchesi (SVP/Ticino).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Switzerland.