Leadership Team
Dilolo Metal and Resources is led by an experienced team with extensive expertise across mining, exploration, project development, finance, and strategic growth. Our leadership combines technical excellence, operational experience, and regional knowledge to advance our copper development strategy.
Experienced Leadership Driving Long-Term Growth
The success of Dilolo Metal and Resources is built on the strength of its leadership team. With deep expertise across mining operations, geological exploration, project development, corporate finance, and regional business strategy, our team is focused on building a sustainable copper development platform within the Central African Copperbelt.
Our leadership approach combines disciplined technical execution, strategic project advancement, and responsible resource development to unlock long-term value.
Theophas Mahuku - Co-Chairman
Theophas Mahuku is a co-founder of Dilolo Metal & Resources SARL and an experienced mining executive with decades of experience in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His background spans mining consultancy, logistics, and exploration, providing a strong, end-to-end understanding of the mining value chain. He played a key role in advancing the Nzuri Copper Project from exploration to bankable feasibility and has chaired operations producing over 4 Mt of ore annually. He has also overseen the development of critical mining infrastructure, including haul and access roads. Mr. Mahuku brings deep regional expertise, strong leadership, and a proven ability to deliver development-ready mining projects.
Xolile Letlaka - Co-Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
Xolile Letlaka is a serial entrepreneur who has built and managed multiple businesses from a young age. He entered the mining industry in 2010 as a Business Development Executive, where he secured key supply agreements and expanded his company’s market presence. In 2017, he transitioned full-time to Into Africa Mining and Exploration (IAME), which he founded in 2013 and continues to own. IAME owns and operates several coal mines and processing facilities in South Africa. He is the Co-Chairman of Dilolo Metal & Resources and has played a key role in shaping and executing the company’s asset development strategy.
Andries Engelbrecht - Chief Operating Officer
Andries Engelbrecht has over 30 years’ experience in the mining industry and has served on the boards of both internationally listed and private mining companies. He began his career at Richards Bay Coal Terminal before moving into mining, holding a range of leadership roles at Trans Natal, Ingwe Coal Corporation (BHP Billiton), Riversdale Mining, Rio Tinto, Ichor Coal, and Into Africa Mining and Exploration. He played a key role in developing coking coal assets for Riversdale Mining in the Tete Province of Mozambique. He has been with Dilolo Metal & Resources since 2023 where he led the establishment of the company’s in-house exploration capability and the advancement of its exploration assets.
Pelagie Meta Mulenda - Chief Financial Officer
Pelagie Meta Mulenda brings extensive experience from the banking sector, along with a strong background in financial management and corporate strategy. She oversees all financial and accounting functions of DMR, ensuring disciplined financial governance and strategic alignment. She is responsible for the company’s financial performance, supporting growth initiatives, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing relationships with investors, partners, and financial institutions.
Environmental Stewardship
We integrate environmental management into every stage of project development, ensuring responsible land use, water management, and biodiversity protection.
Community Engagement
We believe strong community partnerships are essential to long-term project success and work closely with local stakeholders to support social and economic development.
Health & Safety
Safety remains central to our operations, with structured protocols, training, and systems designed to protect our workforce and partners.
Governance
We maintain high standards of corporate governance, transparency, compliance, and ethical business practices.