The Ventora Group has strongly refuted the findings of a recent report by the “Congo Is Not for Sale” (CNPAV) coalition, which scrutinizes the sale of the Mutanda Mining Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a press release issued on August 1, 2025, Ventora denounced the report as lacking credibility, citing what it described as “serious factual inaccuracies,” “methodological flaws,” and “a concerning absence of transparency.”
“We categorically reject the report’s conclusions and are troubled by its lack of analytical rigor,” the group stated.
Key Criticisms of the Report
Ventora highlighted several major concerns with the CNPAV publication:
- Overreliance on Prior Publications:
The report heavily references earlier CNPAV documents rather than drawing on independent, verifiable data. According to Ventora, this undermines the objectivity of its conclusions. - Omission of Crucial Evidence:
Notably, the report fails to acknowledge a professional valuation of the Mutanda asset conducted by BNP Paribas on April 2, 2010. This valuation, commissioned by state mining company Gécamines, confirms that the transaction was carried out transparently and at a price exceeding the bank’s own valuation. - Lack of Stakeholder Engagement:
Ventora claims the coalition did not consult key parties involved in the deal, nor did it respond to the group’s request for clarification prior to publication. This, Ventora argues, reflects a one-sided approach and raises questions about the report’s credibility.
“The selective use of information, unverified assumptions, and failure to engage relevant stakeholders suggest a predetermined narrative rather than a balanced analysis,” the statement noted.
Defending the Mutanda Project’s Impact
Ventora went on to defend the Mutanda Mining Project as a major success story within the DRC’s mining sector, highlighting its economic and developmental contributions:
- Billions invested in infrastructure and operational capacity
- Thousands of jobs created both directly and indirectly
- Over $1 billion in tax revenues paid to the Congolese government
- A key role in positioning the DRC as the world’s top cobalt producer, contributing to the global clean energy transition
According to Ventora, these achievements demonstrate the project’s strategic importance to national development and energy security.
“At a pivotal moment for the DRC’s economy, unfounded allegations like those in the CNPAV report risk derailing constructive dialogue and development-oriented partnerships,” the company warned.
Commitment to Transparency and Partnership
Reaffirming its commitment to responsible business practices, Ventora urged stakeholders and observers to base their assessments on verified facts rather than speculation.
“We encourage all parties to approach CNPAV’s claims with critical scrutiny and to prioritize evidence over accusation. The DRC stands at a historic crossroads, with opportunities to unlock inclusive growth and long-term prosperity,” the group emphasized.
Ventora and its affiliated businessman, Dan Gertler, concluded by reaffirming their long-standing partnership with the Congolese people and their dedication to supporting a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.
