The Democratic Republic of Congo is potentially one of the richest mining countries in Africa, based on its vast resources of copper, cobalt and diamonds. However, as with many African countrys, the DRC is plagued by civil war, an uncertain political situation, corruption and smuggling. This has resulted in a shortage of development capital that has stifled the development of the country's industries. However, development's in the DRC over the last two years has resulted in some optimism for the country. Following the death of Laurent Kabila in early 2001, his son, Joseph Kabila has taken over power. Indications from the Kabila Government appear promising, especially relating to the country's mining industry, as it remains one of the pillars of the country's economy.
Most mining activities are concentrated in the southern and eastern parts of the country, where the famous Copperbelt extends in to the DRC from Zambia near Lumbumbashi. State controlled Gecamines controls the country's mining activities, in particular the copper and cobalt mines. Most interest shown by foreign companies reamins focused on the enormous potential of the Copperbelt, where several world class ore deposits remain to be exploited. Following successful ceasefire talks to be held in 2002, the DRC could become one of Africa's major resource targets over the next few years.
