Cobalt production breakthrough in Congo boosts green energy

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s state cobalt agency has reached a major milestone by producing its first 1,000 metric tonnes of traceable artisanal cobalt. This achievement is significant because cobalt is a key component of rechargeable lithium‑ion batteries used in electric vehicles, smartphones and laptops, and it plays a central role in the global shift toward green energy. The DRC holds roughly 72 % of the world’s cobalt reserves and supplies more than 74 % of global output, making it the largest source of the metal.

Despite its dominance, the sector is largely driven by informal artisanal mines that employ an estimated 1.5 million people and operate with minimal regulation. This has raised widespread concerns about unethical practices, including human‑rights abuses and environmental damage. The International Energy Agency projects a 40 % rise in global cobalt demand by 2030, spurred by the growing need for electric vehicles and renewable‑energy technologies. In response, car manufacturers and electronics firms are increasingly demanding proof of ethical sourcing, pressuring producers to eliminate child labor and unsafe conditions.

The production of traceable artisanal cobalt by the DRC’s Entreprise Générale du Cobalt agency represents a key step toward addressing these issues. By formalizing the sector, the agency aims to clean up the supply chain and align production with international environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. This move is expected to provide a more transparent and responsible source of the critical mineral, influencing the global cobalt market positively.

Formalizing the artisanal mining sector also promises to improve the lives of millions of workers. A more regulated and transparent environment should reduce the risks associated with artisanal mining and promote sustainable, responsible practices. As cobalt demand continues to rise, responsible and ethical sourcing will become increasingly crucial. The DRC’s production of traceable artisanal cobalt marks a significant advance in this direction and is likely to support global efforts to promote sustainable mining. With the cobalt market set to keep expanding, the DRC’s steps toward formalization are essential for ensuring a more sustainable and responsible future for this vital industry.