Forgotten Cobalt Miners in DRC Personal Accounts from the Copperbelt F…

Robert Gultig

30 December 2025

Forgotten Cobalt Miners in DRC Personal Accounts from the Copperbelt F…

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Written by Robert Gultig

30 December 2025

Introduction:

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has long been known as a major producer of cobalt, a critical component in batteries for electric vehicles and electronics. However, amidst the global demand for cobalt, the miners in the DRC often go unnoticed. This report will shed light on the forgotten cobalt miners in the DRC, providing personal accounts from the Copperbelt frontlines. Despite the challenges they face, these miners play a crucial role in the cobalt supply chain.

Top 20 Forgotten Cobalt Miners in DRC:

1. Glencore
– Glencore is one of the largest cobalt producers in the DRC, with a significant presence in the Copperbelt region. The company has been actively involved in the cobalt mining industry, contributing to the global supply chain.

2. China Molybdenum
– China Molybdenum is another key player in the DRC cobalt mining sector, with a focus on developing sustainable mining practices. The company has made significant investments in the region, supporting local communities.

3. ERG
– Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) is a major cobalt producer in the DRC, with a strong presence in the Copperbelt. The company is committed to responsible mining practices and environmental sustainability.

4. Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt
– Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt is a leading cobalt refiner in the DRC, playing a crucial role in the supply chain. The company has been working to improve the livelihoods of cobalt miners in the region.

5. Glencore-Katanga Mining
– Glencore-Katanga Mining is a joint venture between Glencore and Katanga Mining, operating in the DRC. The company has been instrumental in the development of the cobalt mining industry in the region.

6. Chemaf
– Chemaf is a DRC-based cobalt producer with a focus on sustainable mining practices. The company has been working to improve the working conditions of cobalt miners in the region.

7. China Nonferrous Metal Mining
– China Nonferrous Metal Mining is a key player in the DRC cobalt mining sector, with a focus on responsible mining practices. The company has been actively involved in community development projects.

8. Congo DongFang International Mining
– Congo DongFang International Mining is a major cobalt producer in the DRC, with a commitment to ethical sourcing. The company has been working to address the social and environmental impacts of cobalt mining.

9. Ruashi Mining
– Ruashi Mining is a DRC-based cobalt producer, with a focus on sustainable mining practices. The company has been working to improve the living conditions of cobalt miners in the region.

10. Minsur
– Minsur is a global mining company with operations in the DRC, including cobalt mining. The company has been investing in local infrastructure and social programs to support cobalt miners.

11. Jinchuan Group
– Jinchuan Group is a leading cobalt producer in the DRC, with a focus on responsible mining practices. The company has been working to address the challenges faced by cobalt miners in the region.

12. Shalina Resources
– Shalina Resources is a DRC-based cobalt producer, with a commitment to sustainable mining practices. The company has been working to improve the health and safety of cobalt miners in the region.

13. MMG
– MMG is a global mining company with operations in the DRC, including cobalt mining. The company has been working to enhance the skills and capabilities of cobalt miners in the region.

14. Trafigura
– Trafigura is a key player in the DRC cobalt supply chain, with a focus on responsible sourcing. The company has been working to create opportunities for local cobalt miners.

15. Ivanhoe Mines
– Ivanhoe Mines is a major cobalt producer in the DRC, with a focus on sustainable mining practices. The company has been investing in community development projects to support cobalt miners.

16. Sicomines
– Sicomines is a joint venture between the DRC government and Chinese companies, with a focus on cobalt mining. The partnership has been working to promote transparency and accountability in the cobalt supply chain.

17. Chemaf
– Chemaf is a DRC-based cobalt producer, with a commitment to ethical sourcing. The company has been working to improve the livelihoods of cobalt miners in the region.

18. BHR Mining
– BHR Mining is a key player in the DRC cobalt mining sector, with a focus on sustainable mining practices. The company has been working to address the social and environmental impacts of cobalt mining.

19. CDM
– CDM is a leading cobalt producer in the DRC, with a commitment to responsible mining practices. The company has been actively involved in community development projects to support cobalt miners.

20. CNMC
– CNMC is a global mining company with operations in the DRC, including cobalt mining. The company has been investing in local infrastructure and social programs to support cobalt miners.

Insights:

The cobalt mining industry in the DRC is facing increasing scrutiny over environmental and social issues. Companies operating in the region need to prioritize sustainable practices and responsible sourcing to address these concerns. As the demand for cobalt continues to rise, it is crucial for all stakeholders in the supply chain to work together to ensure the well-being of cobalt miners and the communities they live in. By promoting transparency and accountability, the cobalt mining industry in the DRC can overcome its challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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