By Peter John

Organisers of DRC Mining Week have announced a new advisory board comprising experts from across the mining value chain, as preparations gather pace for the 2026 edition of the flagship industry event.

The expo and conference, organised by VUKA Group, is scheduled to take place from June 17 to 19, 2026 at the Pullman Grand Karavia Hotel.

The announcement comes after a milestone year for the event, which was named “Event of the Year” at the Katanga Awards in November 2025 and marked its 20th anniversary with a record-breaking edition.

According to the organisers, the advisory board will play a key role in shaping the programme and ensuring the event continues to address critical issues facing the mining sector in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond.

Samukelo Madlabane, Events Director for Mining at VUKA Group, said the platform is designed to foster open and constructive dialogue within the industry.

“We must never be afraid to ask the hard, uncomfortable questions. It is the only way to drive systemic change, influence policy, and build confidence in the DRC’s mining sector,” he said.

The newly announced board brings together representatives from government institutions, mining companies, advisory firms, and industry bodies.

Also included are Popol Mabolia Yenga of the Mining Cadaster and Patience Mpofu of Insight Mining Experts, alongside resource partners such as Bakomeka Kelina Adolphe and Bernadette Mpundu Mpia from the Chamber of Mines, Cyrille Mutombo of Barrick DRC and Kibali Gold Mines, and Eric Monga of Kipay Investments.

The advisory board reflects a broad cross-section of the industry, bringing together expertise in areas such as sustainability, investment, regulation, and project development. Organisers say this diversity is critical in ensuring the event remains relevant and responsive to evolving industry dynamics.

Over the years, DRC Mining Week has grown into a leading platform for mining investment and sector dialogue, particularly in the mineral-rich Copperbelt region. It convenes stakeholders from across the value chain to explore opportunities, share knowledge, and address challenges affecting the industry.

With the 2026 edition expected to build on previous successes, organisers say the strengthened advisory board will help maintain the event’s standards while pushing for deeper engagement on key issues shaping the future of mining in the region.

As the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to position itself as a major player in the global mining industry, the event is expected to play a central role in driving conversations around investment, sustainability, and long-term sector growth.

By Peter John

Rasha Kelej has once again been named among Africa’s 100 Most Influential Women, marking her seventh consecutive appearance on the list published by Avance Media.

The recognition adds to her growing list of accolades, coming shortly after she was featured in the 100 Most Influential Africans 2025 ranking by New African Magazine. She joins a distinguished group of leaders on the continent, including Samia Suluhu Hassan and Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.

The annual list highlights African women whose leadership and contributions continue to shape decision-making and drive impact across sectors both locally and globally.

Dr. Kelej, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Merck Foundation and President of the “More Than a Mother” campaign, said the recognition reflects the broader work being done to improve lives across the continent.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized for the seventh consecutive year. It is a privilege to be named alongside inspiring leaders and change-makers across Africa,” she said.

Over the past decade, the Merck Foundation has rolled out a series of programmes aimed at strengthening healthcare systems, expanding access to education, and empowering women.

One of its flagship initiatives has seen more than 2,500 scholarships awarded to healthcare professionals from 52 countries, focusing on critical and underserved medical fields.

These efforts have contributed to addressing shortages of specialists in several countries, particularly in areas such as oncology, fertility care, and intensive care, where access was previously limited.

Beyond healthcare, the foundation has also prioritised women’s empowerment and girls’ education.

Through the “More Than a Mother” campaign, it has worked to break infertility stigma and improve reproductive health awareness, while the “Educating Linda” programme has supported over 1,200 schoolgirls with scholarships and essential learning resources.

Nearly half of the scholarships awarded under the foundation’s programmes have gone to female healthcare professionals, underscoring its focus on increasing women’s participation in the sector.

In addition, initiatives such as the Merck Africa Research Summit Awards have been introduced to support scientific research and recognise emerging African researchers, particularly women in STEM fields.

Dr. Kelej has also used media and the arts as platforms for advocacy, producing television programmes, songs, books, and films aimed at raising awareness about social and health issues, including gender-based violence, child marriage, and chronic diseases.

Her work has involved collaboration with governments, First Ladies, academic institutions, and civil society organisations across Africa and Asia, helping to expand the reach and impact of these programmes.

The latest recognition underscores her continued influence in advancing healthcare, education, and social change, as well as the growing role of cross-sector partnerships in addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.

By Peter John

Djibouti has launched its largest-ever privately led housing project, a $480 million development that underscores the country’s accelerating urban and economic transformation.

The project, known as Salaam City, was officially unveiled on March 23 in Nagad during a ceremony presided over by President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh.

The head of state toured newly completed model homes and took part in a symbolic groundbreaking to mark the start of full-scale construction.

Developed by Salaam Real Estate, Salaam City is planned as a large mixed-use development spanning 2.4 million square metres and will deliver more than 7,000 homes.

The project is designed as a “city within a city,” integrating residential units with essential social and commercial infrastructure, including schools, healthcare facilities, a mosque, retail outlets, offices, and public recreational spaces.

The initiative comes at a time when demand for quality housing in Djibouti is rising, driven by the country’s growing role as a regional logistics and trade hub.

Located near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes, Djibouti has in recent years invested heavily in ports, railways, and transport infrastructure under its long-term Vision 2035 strategy.

Speaking during the launch, Salaam Real Estate General Manager Mustafe Liibaan said the development reflects the country’s changing economic landscape and the need for inclusive urban growth.

He noted that Salaam City aims to provide not just housing, but a well-planned community where families can access modern amenities and a secure living environment.

The project targets a wide range of buyers, offering affordable, mid-range, and premium housing options to cater to Djibouti’s expanding middle class and professional workforce.

Financing for the development will be supported by Salaam African Bank, which is expected to provide Islamic financing solutions to make home ownership more accessible.

Bank officials say the goal is to ensure that the project is not only built but also within reach for prospective homeowners.

Construction will be carried out in phases over a five-year period, with the first residents expected to move in from 2028.

At peak construction, the project is projected to employ up to 2,000 people across various sectors, including engineering, construction, and technical services.

Beyond housing, Salaam City is expected to contribute to broader economic activity while promoting sustainable urban development.

Plans for the project incorporate energy-efficient building techniques, environmentally friendly materials, and landscaped green spaces aimed at improving quality of life.

President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh said the development aligns with the country’s broader vision of improving living standards while supporting economic growth.

He emphasized the importance of expanding access to quality housing, creating jobs, and building inclusive communities.

As Djibouti continues to position itself as a strategic gateway between Africa, the Middle East, and global markets, projects like Salaam City highlight a shift toward more structured and integrated urban planning, reflecting the evolving needs of a rapidly modernising