Untapped Mineral Wealth Held Back by Infrastructure Gaps

Despite strong geological indicators, Kasai remains underexplored. Nickel- and chromium-bearing formations were confirmed decades ago by state and foreign geologists. In the 2000s, Chinese firms sampled the region and reported high-grade ore—but later pulled out, citing total lack of electricity and logistical support. Only about 11% of the DRC is under active mineral permits, and Kasai has largely been left off the map.

That’s now changing. A 2023 campaign led by President Félix Tshisekedi prioritized Kasai for critical mineral exploration. The National Geology Service has kicked off mapping efforts, while provincial officials are promoting nickel, chrome, and iron as investment targets. Public–private partnerships are being encouraged, and domestic companies like MIBA and Energy 24 have already acquired exploration licenses near Kananga and Mbuji-Mayi.

Nickel Prices and Global Demand Support Early-Stage Investment

Nickel hit $54,050/t in 2007, dipped below $10,000 during the 2008 crash, and spiked again to $100,000 during the LME short squeeze in 2022. As of June 2025, the price sits around $14,780/t—well above the level needed to justify first-pass exploration. With nickel demand driven by electric vehicle batteries and stainless steel, supply diversification is now top-of-mind for global buyers. Kasai’s positioning within the Congo Craton, confirmed chromite belts, and fresh gravimetry anomalies make it a prime candidate for resource delineation.

Framework for Launching Nickel Exploration in Kasai

Here's how we structure exploration programs in frontier mining zones like Kasai:

1. Step 1: Target Validation & Licensing — Compile historical geophysics, gravity maps, and legacy sampling; secure exploration licenses through provincial channels.
2. Step 2: Field Campaign Planning — Design trenching, RC and core drilling programs; set up logistics and local hiring plans; budget for off-grid energy.
3. Step 3: Capital Stack Structuring — Blend early equity, milestone-triggered debt, and export credit cover tied to results.
4. Step 4: Execution & Sampling — Deploy drill rigs, manage QA/QC and assay workflows; map tonnage and tenor.
5. Step 5: Resource Modeling & Economic Review — Run maiden resource estimates, metallurgical test work, and preliminary economics.
6. Step 6: JV Structuring & Offtake — Invite strategic partners, negotiate smelter prepayments, and prep for development funding.

Exploration Scenarios We Support in Kasai

• Greenfield Nickel Surveys: Satellite and airborne work to identify geophysical anomalies in untested zones.
• First-Pass Drilling: RC/core campaigns focused on gravity anomalies or historical intercepts.
• Chromite Belt Testing: Shallow trenching and test-pitting near known occurrences.
• Feasibility & Scoping Work: Metallurgical testing, environmental baseline work, and cost curve modeling.
• Offtake-Backed Development: Structuring offtake deals with downstream buyers and processors.

Why Investors Should Watch Kasai Closely

• Government Priority: National authorities are actively supporting exploration in Kasai through speeches, tenders, and public–private models.
• Geophysical Evidence: Gravity lows, mafic-ultramafic complexes, and fault-aligned anomalies are present across multiple sites.
• Open Licensing Ground: Unlike the Copperbelt, Kasai is largely unlicensed—first movers still get real access.
• Moderate Royalties: Nickel and chrome are taxed at 3.5%, not subject to the 10% strategic metal royalty.
• Energy Roadmap: Katende hydro project (64MW) and proposed mini-dams will begin reducing energy bottlenecks by 2026.
• Long-Term Price Tailwinds: With global EV targets accelerating, nickel demand will remain structurally high for the next decade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there confirmed nickel in Kasai?
Yes. Historical data and modern geophysical surveys have confirmed anomalies and surface samples containing nickel and chromium. Some of these were confirmed by Chinese sampling efforts in 2007.

Why hasn’t it been exploited yet?
There is no electricity grid servicing mining areas in Kasai, and road infrastructure is extremely poor. Past investors have exited due to these logistical constraints, though solutions are now in progress.

Who holds current licenses?
MIBA, via a partnership with Congolese firm Energy 24, holds several research permits near Kananga. Most of the region remains open ground.

When will energy be available?
The Katende hydroelectric project is scheduled to begin operations by 2026. A small dam for Mbuji-Mayi has also received budget approval.

Are there any Western companies involved?
Not yet, but with U.S.–DRC critical mineral agreements in place and open licensing ground, foreign interest is expected to rise once infrastructure improves.

Service Disclaimers & Important Considerations

FG Capital Advisors acts as a financial arranger and advisor. We do not lend directly or underwrite mining projects. All financing and exploration work is subject to due diligence, regulatory approval, and market conditions.

Mineral exploration carries high risk. Resource potential must be confirmed through proper studies. No guarantee of commercial success, mineralization continuity, or future pricing is implied. Always seek independent legal and technical advice before proceeding.