Can you briefly introduce KBM and highlight the objective of the event?

KBM is one of the largest events in the Copperbelt region and the DRC, with a record high of 170 exhibitors and 4,000 visitors in 2015. While this year attendance dropped to 130 exhibitors and around 2,300 visitors, we are now focusing on bringing people from different sectors together to create greater impact. Mining has remained the heart of the economy for many years, however it is critical that the DRC develop other sectors such as agriculture, tourism and transport. We represent nine major sectors and provide these players with a platform to raise awareness about their activities. We anticipate that in the future, more countries will participate in the exhibition to help grow the underdeveloped sectors in DRC.

What are the advantages for a mining company that participates in the KBM event?

Mining companies in DRC will not find buyers in an exhibition, but through the new law requiring the mines to rely more on Congolese subcontractors and reduce imports, there is a need for a space for all of these entities to engage and learn about one another. The strategy of KBM is to put together not just mining suppliers, but also other sectors that indirectly impact the mining houses such as agriculture and tourism. Secondly, conferences play a key role in facilitating conversation about the changes occurring in the industry and promote transparent dialogue on topics such as how the new mining code will be applied. Events like KBM bring stakeholders together to understand, share, and communicate on different experiences and perspectives.

In your opinion, what is the missing ingredient that will help to strengthen the business ecosystem here in DRC?

Without better education, it will be difficult to move forward and we need better schools and higher level universities to accomplish that. Additionally, we need to develop better local facilities for Congolese living abroad due to economic and security reasons. Promoting peace and justice will also be key, and overcoming the corruption issue that the country faces is also important for improving the business environment here. Regarding the local subcontractors, if better education and justice systems are achieved in combination with a crackdown on corruption, the entire supply chain will benefit. 

What challenges do you see for investments into the power sector here in DRC?

The power sector has been liberalized in the DRC and many companies like Kipay are now investing in opportunities to provide energy. These projects are challenging and they require significant time and large budgets to be successful. DRC is also home to the Inga Dam project which, step by step, is moving forward, although after the involvement of many external investors it is clear that the project faces an unclear and difficult development path. Nonetheless, in the next five years, I believe we will see improvements in the energy sector. The problem remains that consumption of energy will only continue to rise with increased production capacity. To meet all the industrial needs for this country's development, the government will need to invest more heavily in power-related projects and find more partners. 

How do you expect editions of KBM will evolve in the future?

In the beginning, exhibitions were our strength and hosting the conference was our weakness, and this year our focus was to bring better speakers on board and generally enhance the conference element. Next year, we aim to streamline both and potentially bring the event to Kolwezi. Although Kolwezi makes sense as a venue site because that is where the mines are, the availability of hotels and accommodation in Kolwezi presents some limitations. His excellency the Governor of Lualaba is making incredible efforts to develop the infrastructure and, if we have a welcoming environment for all these actors, we certainly will take advantage of the opportunity.

What final message would you send about the opportunities to invest in DRC to our international and regional readers?

DRC faces significant challenges in comparison to many other countries on the continent, but I believe for Africa to realize its full potential, solving the social, economic, and political problems in DRC should be a priority. Our country is the heart of Africa and once we get on track, the result will benefit the entire continent. Currently, the DRC is focused on its relationship with the southern region and not putting enough emphasis on engaging with countries to the north, west and east. Countries like Morocco, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Kenya could help to bring solutions to develop our sectors. To all investors, I would recommend not to wait for the election, but come beforehand to gain a clear view of the opportunities in our country.