Rt. Honourable Sir Gavin Williamson Joins Buenassa’s Advisory Board to Strengthen Strategic Vision and Global Engagement

Kinshasa, DRC – July 2^nd, 2025

As Buenassa secures a defining milestone with the onboarding of the Congolese State as a strategic equity partner in Buenassa Resources S.A., the subsidiary leading the development of its copper and cobalt refinery in Lualaba Province, the company is pleased to announce the appointment of Rt. Hon. Sir Gavin Williamson CBE MP to its Advisory Board, reinforcing its global positioning amid a shifting geopolitical landscape and the ongoing industrial realignment around critical minerals.

A prominent British parliamentarian and former UK Secretary of State for Defence and subsequently Education, Sir Gavin arrives at Buenassa with a distinguished track record in international affairs, defence policy, and industrial governance. His expertise in forging ties between governments and advanced-technology sectors—particularly in defenceand high-tech manufacturing—will guide Buenassa’s efforts to align local ambitions with global best practices.

Headquartered in the DRC, Buenassa aims to be at the forefront of redefining the country’s industrial landscape through a transformative model anchored in local beneficiation, inclusive employment, and transparent value creation. With a strong focus on youth and gender empowerment, the company is reshaping the Congolese mining sector by advancing responsible, sustainable, and socially inclusive practices across the entire mineral value chain—from extraction to export.

Sir Gavin Williamson's appointment is a pivotal moment in Buenassa’s evolution as it seeks to expand its global partnerships, enhance policy engagement, and promote high-level dialogue around the responsible sourcing of critical minerals to the energy transition.

“We are delighted to welcome Sir Gavin Williamson to our Advisory Board. His extensive expertise in public service and policymaking, coupled with his in-depth knowledge of the industrial sector, particularly the defence industry, and his extensive international network, will be invaluable as we expand our impact-driven initiatives and seek to contribute significantly to the economic transformation of the Democratic Republic of Congo in alignment with national security related interests as highlighted by the recent DRC – US Critical Minerals to security Pact in preparation.” said Eddy Kioni, CEO of Buenassa.

During his tenure in UK Cabinet, Sir Gavin Williamson played a key role in strengthening the UK’s industrial and innovation ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on national security, strategic infrastructure, and youth development.

His leadership on security policy, global partnerships, and know-how transfer gives him a unique vantage point on the interplay between national priorities and international cooperation.

“I am honoured to join Buenassa at this critical juncture,” Sir Gavin Williamson said.

“The global shift toward sustainable development and responsible sourcing demands new forms of cooperation—ones that respect sovereignty, promote transparency, and deliver real value to local communities. Buenassa’s model speaks directly to that future, and I look forward to contributing to its success.”

“Sir Gavin’s appointment reflects our conviction that international expertise and local ambition must work hand in hand to build the next chapter of African industry. His global reach and policy depth will strengthen Buenassa’s capacity to shape the future of critical mineral governance.” said Dr. Marie-Paule Donsimoni-Bupp, Chair of the Advisory Board. 

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About Buenassa

Buenassa, a Congolese company, is committed to building a value-added mineral supply chain by harnessing the full potential of the country’s vast critical mineral reserves. With aspirations to become a key player across the entire value chain, Buenassa is spearheading industrial transformation through two flagship initiatives: a best-in-class copper and cobalt refinery designed to drive local beneficiation and strengthen global supply chain resilience, and a cutting-edge FIBC bag manufacturing facility aimed at enhancing traceability, logistics, and ethical sourcing standards. By embedding responsible mining practices, climate-smart operations, and community-centered development into its core strategy, Buenassa is advancing inclusive economic growth and shaping the sustainable future of the Congolese mining sector.