The mining equipment market in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to attract major investment, with copper production remaining an important driver of demand for heavy machinery.
On August 25, 2026, Sandvik announced a new order from Kamoa Copper for 19 mining machines for the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the DRC. The order includes 12 Toro TH663i underground trucks and 7 LH621i loaders. Two of the loaders will also be equipped with AutoMine automation technology.
The first four trucks are expected to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026, followed by another 13 machines in the first quarter of 2027. The remaining two loaders are scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of 2027.
Why Mining Equipment Demand Matters
Kamoa-Kakula is one of the major copper mining projects in the DRC, and its continued expansion creates demand not only for underground mining equipment but also for supporting transportation and construction machinery.
Mining operations need a large range of equipment around the mine site. Heavy trucks are used for material transportation, while loaders, excavators, wheel loaders and other machines handle loading, stockpiling and site preparation.
For equipment suppliers, this type of project shows that demand in African mining markets is not limited to one type of machine.
Africa's Mining Market Is Becoming More Equipment-Focused
Recent developments across Africa also show more attention being placed on equipment availability, productivity and operating costs.
At the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba, manufacturers showcased mining equipment with a stronger focus on lower emissions, safety and productivity, reflecting changing requirements from mining companies operating across the continent.
At the same time, equipment manufacturers are expanding their presence in African markets. SDLG reported that the African wheel loader and excavator market grew during the first half of 2026, with the company increasing sales and market activity during the period.
What Buyers Should Look At
For mining and construction companies, buying equipment is not simply about choosing the machine with the largest engine.
Actual working conditions matter more. Road surface, payload, working hours, fuel availability and access to spare parts can all affect the cost of running a machine.
For trucks, buyers should pay particular attention to axle configuration, frame strength, tire size, engine torque and suspension. A truck working inside a mine has very different requirements from one mainly running on paved highways.
The latest equipment orders in the DRC are another sign that African mining projects continue to create demand for heavy-duty transportation and construction equipment.
Source: Sandvik, Mining Indaba, SDLG.
