What makes MCSC stand out from the competition?

We are one of the best-recognized subcontractors in the region, bringing the experience we have gathered over the last 13 years of operations. We are very proud of our achievements, including zero LTI (lost time injury). In the DRC, it is difficult to find qualified personnel, so we have put significant time and effort in developing a very strong workforce that have stayed with us for many years. Our outstanding and very cohesive team is what we celebrate the most. Our current capacity and capability in mining is around 1 million BCM a month, depending on the conditions and the transporting distance for the fleet. Our team effectively consists of permanent staff members in administrative and managerial roles, and the team on the ground, which changes according to location, since we hire most people close to the mine site to benefit the local communities, especially for long contracts. This also makes more sense logistically.

What has been the impact of inflation on your business?

The costs of buying new equipment and spare parts increased by no less than 20% this year. Meanwhile, deliveries take longer, while the cost of transport goes up together with the fuel cost.  At the same time, new local players of rental equipment have entered the  market and it is common that they offer rates below of cost of ownership.  The DRC mining contracting and equipment rental market is under huge pressure for the existing service providers, but economical for the mining clients.

How have your working relationships with the Chinese-owned mining industry in the DRC evolved?

80% of mines are managed by Chinese entities. In the past years, MCSC started working with some Chinese companies in the DRC in the Katanga region. It is true that the contractual phase has been challenging, however, MCSC did find a way forward. The current contract relations and operations  are beneficial for both parties.

Kolwezi has been seeing multiple investments. Is the city becoming a key mining hub in the region?

New plants and mines are popping up everywhere and the mining services industry is following its clients. Mining Services companies that were previously based in Lubumbashi are shifting to be closer to their clients. Others that are just starting up know that Kolwezi is the place to be. So yes, Kolwezi is gaining magnitude as a central mining hub.

How do you think perceptions about the DRC are changing?

The DRC is an amazing country with enormous opportunities. However, the work conditions are extremely hard. The entire world is now seeking new opportunities and projects regarding the renewable energy strategy and is looking closely to the DRC. So, we are enthusiastic and willing to be part of the new opportunities the DRC is offering in the nearest future.

You are one of the few women leaders in the mining sector. What is your experience as a woman entrepreneur in the sector?

It’s true mining has very few women in leadership roles, yet more women are joining the industry, not only in desk-based roles but also at mining sites. For me, the male-dominated mining industry was never in itself a problem. A woman in this industry is certainly more challenged than a male colleague, however, once the expertise and experience is proven, this challenge disappears completely.

Do you have a final message?

Being a subcontractor is not only about renting machines. We see our purpose in being a reliable partner that can add real value to our mining clients. On top of the machines, we sell expertise and dedication. I continue to believe that the DRC is an amazing country, so very rich in resources and possibilities. To be successful in this country, it is crucial that new companies analyse very well the situation on the ground and preferably have good contacts in the country. We see a changing landscape that requires constant re-adaptation, but our primary focus remains mining. MCSC is happy to be part of the transformation that the DRC is undergoing and keep the firm conviction that mining can be done respectfully and on a sustainable way.