Lobito-Connect: creating impact towards responsible sourcing
Sustainable value chains are at the core of CSR Europe’s work. Especially with Drive Sustainability we have build up an in-depth experience on how to move from due diligence compliance to engagement on the ground with a focus to improve responsible sourcing, especially in raw materials.
At the end of last year, CSR Europe was awarded an EU grant, together with the development NGO Louvain Cooperation and SME-incubator Ovation.
This project, named Lobito-Connect, aims to improve the local value chain development in the mining provinces Lualaba and Haute Katanga in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It focuses on the integration of local workforce and SMEs in the booming investments around the Lobito-Corridor. This regions are specifically important for copper and cobalt mining, two materials essential for the energy transition.
Last April, we were proud to host a first atelier, organised in partnership with FEC – Chambre des Mines, focused on how stronger local value chains can drive meaningful value creation across the Lobito Corridor. We explored with the mining companies and their major suppliers what their specific needs and challenges are in local hiring and local subcontracting.
A Conversation That Matters
At the heart of the discussion was a straightforward but powerful question: how can this programme support the involvement of local people and how can local businesses genuinely thrive within the mining eco-system?
Participants explored how Lobito Connect can strengthen local capabilities, better align SMEs with the operational and procurement needs of major mining corporations, and create a clearer picture of the skills and capacities that companies need to develop to unlock tangible opportunities.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Guy Muswil, Executive HSE & Sustainability at Kamoa Copper, who attended on behalf of the President of the Fédération des Entreprises du Congo et Chambre de Mines, and to Hilde Van Inthoudt, Consul-General of Belgium, for their valuable contributions and introductions to this event.
Looking Ahead
The themes explored in this atelier — local value creation, sustainable business ecosystems, and responsible industry development — sit at the very core of the sustainability agenda we champion across all our work.
At the occasion of DRC Mining Week, CSR Europe will be hosting a stakeholder dialogue on Monday 15th June where the improvement roadmap will be discusses with civil society, government agencies, mining companies and their suppliers, downstream companies and educational institutes.
These discussions will also be taken forward at our annual flagship event, the European Sustainable Industry Summit, where leaders from across industries come together to turn insight into action. On Day 1 of the event we will organise a specific Leadership Roundtable, in collaboration with RES4Africa, on the topic of how to move from due diligence compliance to local value creation.
If you haven't yet registered, we encourage you not to miss this opportunity. Register today.
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