Virtus Minerals and Lloyds Metals Launch Community Health Initiative in Lubumbashi, DRC
LUBUMBASHI, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO — February 19, 2026 — Virtus Minerals Inc. ("Virtus"), in partnership with India's Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. ("Lloyds Metals") and Chemaf SA ("Chemaf"), today completed a community health intervention in the Lubumbashi region, delivering malaria prevention resources, rapid diagnostic testing, and direct medical care to more than 1,000 community members surrounding Chemaf's mining operations.
The initiative distributed over 400 long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) to local families, with priority given to pregnant mothers and children. On-site medical teams administered hundreds of rapid malaria diagnostic tests, provided antimalarial medicines to those who tested positive, and completed over 300 doctor consultations, including health screenings and prescription dispensing.
The program was conducted in coordination with local community leaders, including the Mayor of Ruashi,Mrs. Lucie Mujinga, and health agents.
"Our first investment in Chemaf was not in copper. It was in people," said Phil Braun, Managing Director of Virtus Minerals.
Virtus, Lloyd’s and Chemaf representatives with the Lubumbashi community
Structured for Continuity
The February 19 initiative was designed as the foundation of an ongoing community health and investment program. All beneficiaries were recorded electronically to enable follow-up monitoring of repeat illness and treatment outcomes. Local health system personnel were integrated into every stage of the intervention, from screening through education and treatment delivery.
The program reflects Virtus and Lloyds Metals' approach to responsible resource development in the DRC, prioritizing direct community engagement and measurable health outcomes alongside industrial investment to revitalize the Chemaf mining and processing facilities in Lubumbashi and Kolwezi.
Virtus is committed to continued investments in community health, including malaria prevention, sources of water, training and education.
Strategic Context
Virtus Minerals is advancing the acquisition of Chemaf, a copper and cobalt producer operating in the DRC's Katanga copper belt. The transaction includes significant planned capital investment to complete the development of Chemaf's Etoile Phase 2 and Mutoshi projects, which will increase production and provide additional local employment opportunities in a variety of roles.
The Chemaf acquisition is aligned with broader U.S. government efforts to strengthen critical mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on foreign for materials essential to energy, and advanced manufacturing. The DRC accounts for more than 70% of global cobalt production, the majority of which is produced and processed by Chinese companies.