Strategic Mineral Economic Zones

SM EZ: Transforming Mineral Development in the DRC

Strategic Mineral Economic Zones (SM EZs)

A New Model for Ethical Mining and Regional Transformation

Strategic Mineral Economic Zones (SM EZs) are secure, designated areas established under Project STIMULUS 15 to foster ethical and transparent mineral development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Legally protected and governed under enhanced regulatory frameworks, these zones are purpose-built to support responsible exploration, extraction, and processing of minerals that are critical to the United States' national security and industrial leadership—while driving inclusive, long-term development across the DRC.

Built on Governance. Powered by Purpose.

Each SM EZ is designed to meet the highest international standards of integrity, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. By streamlining operations and minimizing bureaucratic obstacles, these zones create an investment-ready environment that ensures:

Transparent and accountable governance

Environmentally responsible mining practices

Job creation and revenue sharing for local communities

Through SM EZs, Project STIMULUS 15 offers a viable, scalable pathway to peace and prosperity in regions that have long suffered from instability and underinvestment.

Strategic Locations with Maximum Impact

SM EZs are being deployed across some of the DRC's most mineral-rich territories—specifically targeting areas historically affected by conflict. This deliberate focus enables the transformation of these zones into secure hubs of economic growth, regional stability, and social development.

Site selection is based on:

  • Detailed geological assessments
  • Security and accessibility
  • Infrastructure and logistics readiness
  • Local community partnership potential

Each zone is engineered to not only maximize mineral output, but also to build resilient, inclusive economies that lift up entire regions.

Conflict Zones & Mineral Resources

Understanding the intersection of mineral wealth and regional stability in the DRC

Key Conflict Areas

  • Eastern DRC Coltan, Gold, Tin
  • Kivu Provinces Cobalt, Copper
  • Katanga Region Copper, Cobalt, Uranium

Resource Management Challenges

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Security Issues

Armed groups controlling mineral-rich territories

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Supply Chain

Complex tracking and verification processes

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Community Impact

Local population displacement and social tensions

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Governance

Regulatory oversight and enforcement challenges

Strategic Solutions

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Protected Mining Zones

Establishment of secure, monitored extraction areas with military protection

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Digital Tracking

Implementation of blockchain and IoT solutions for mineral traceability

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Community Engagement

Local workforce development and benefit-sharing programs

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Compliance Framework

Strict adherence to international standards and regular auditing