Congo replaces head of miner Gecamines for first time in decade

Bloomberg News | December 5, 2021 | 1:06 pm Battery Metals Africa Cobalt Copper

State mining company Gecamines headquarters. (Image courtesy of Gecamines).

Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi named Alphonse Kaputo Kalubi as chairman of Gecamines, the state-controlled copper and cobalt mining company.

Kalubi replaces Albert Yuma who served for more than 10 years at the helm of a company that’s key to mining in Congo, the world’s biggest cobalt producer. Tshisekedi’s spokesman, Kasongo Mwema Yamba Yamba, confirmed the leadership changes in a message on Friday.

Bester-Hilaire Ntambwe Ngoy Kabongo was named chief executive officer, while Leon Mwine Kabiena becomes his deputy, Yamba Yamba said.

(By Michael J. Kavanagh)