Lualaba Generates 67% of DRC Mining Revenue in 2023, Highlighting Economic Dependence on Copper and Cobalt
The province of Lualaba in the Democratic Republic of Congo recorded a dominant performance in the mining sector in 2023, generating approximately $3.93 billion in revenues, according to a report by the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) published in early 2026.
These figures account for about 67.2% of the country’s total mining revenues, estimated at $5.85 billion for the year, underscoring Lualaba’s central role in the national extractive economy.
Haut-Katanga province followed as the second-largest contributor, generating approximately $1.03 billion in mining revenues.
Together, Lualaba and Haut-Katanga continue to anchor the Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining-driven economy, particularly through copper and cobalt production.
The report further highlights a combined contribution of over $109 million from the two provinces in additional revenue categories, reinforcing their dominance in the country’s extractive value chain.
Heavy reliance on mining sector raises concerns
The findings also reflect the Democratic Republic of Congo’s strong dependence on mining as the primary driver of economic growth.
Key exports such as copper and cobalt remain highly exposed to global price fluctuations, leaving national revenues vulnerable to volatility in international commodity markets.
The report notes that swings in metal prices, particularly copper in 2023, highlight structural risks associated with relying heavily on a single sector. This dependence underscores the need for broader economic diversification.
Call for diversification and value addition
While mining revenues remain substantial, the report emphasizes the importance of channeling earnings into infrastructure, education, and industrial development to support long-term economic stability.
It also reinforces the role of transparency initiatives in improving governance within the extractive sector.
Strengthening royalty tracking systems, expanding public-private partnerships, and promoting local mineral processing are identified as key priorities for improving value retention within the country.
Overall, the report positions Lualaba and Haut-Katanga as the economic backbone of the Democratic Republic of Congo, while highlighting the urgent need for reforms to reduce reliance on raw mineral exports and enhance sustainable development outcomes.
