This MoU forms part of a public-private partnership intended to enhance the formalisation, professionalisation, and accountability of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). It provides EGC with mining rights over an exploitation area owned by ERG Africa and located in Lualaba Province.

While none of ERG Africa’s production originates from ASM and will not do so in the future, the group is committed, alongside EGC, Cobalt For Development Programme implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and local communities, to supporting the formalisation of this sector, which is crucial for the country’s economic development and entire supply chain transparency.

The pilot project within the MoU aims to establish a structured model that will improve the working conditions of artisanal miners and reduce the risks associated with informal mining (including human rights risks). It should strengthen social cohesion within surrounding mining communities, enhance environmental protection and ensure the traceability and security of the cobalt supply chain, in line with the vision of the Congolese Government.

The signing ceremony was attended by His Excellency Mr Louis Watum, DRC Minister of Mines; Mr Gino Buhendwa Ntale, Chairman of EGC’s Board of Directors; Mr Eric Kalala, Chief Executive Officer of EGC; and Mr Davron Vakhabov, Chief Executive Officer of ERG Africa.

Implementation will be carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Mines, the Authority for the Regulation and Control of Markets and Strategic Substances (ARECOMS), SEAMAPE, and the CEEC, with the support of Gécamines. EGC will provide operational leadership, while ERG Africa will act as an enabling partner and GIZ as technical partners. A third-party operator will be appointed to oversee day-to-day operations, and public consultations will be held with local communities and civil society.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Davron Vakhabov, Chief Executive Officer of ERG Africa, stated, “At ERG Africa, we believe that legitimate artisanal mining plays an important socio-economic role in the DRC. Supporting the formalisation of ASM activities within the legal framework is essential to improving safety, transparency, and community well-being. The signing of this agreement represents a concrete commitment in that direction. By combining the respective experience of the different parties, together with government support, we are laying the foundation for a model with transformative potential.”