Trade Envoy visit to the DRC

This week I had the privilege of visiting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as the UK Trade Envoy. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the British Embassy team for their invaluable support and dedication throughout my visit, the DRC is a country of remarkable resilience, though it remains a complex environment in which to operate.

During my time here, I visited farms, schools, and mining projects, and engaged with British businesses interested in investing in the DRC’s future. Our discussions centred on how UK expertise and investment can help drive improvements in infrastructure and support sustainable, inclusive growth.

A key focus was the responsible development of the DRC’s energy sector. Protecting the Congo Basin—the world’s largest carbon sink—is critical, not only for the DRC but for the entire planet. Investment in power infrastructure and renewable energy generation is essential to unlock the country’s economic potential, support the expansion of critical minerals mining, and ensure communities have access to clean, reliable energy sources that reduce reliance on charcoal and help combat deforestation.

I look forward to deepening our partnership and supporting a future where the DRC’s vast resources drive sustainable progress for all.