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Central Africa

Amidst Instability, US Forges Critical Minerals Alliance with DRC

March 16, 2025

(3 Minutes Read)

The US State Department confirmed that it is open to exploring partnerships related to critical minerals with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This follows a proposal from a Congolese politician suggesting a minerals-for-security agreement. The DRC, which has significant reserves of cobalt, lithium, and uranium, is currently facing challenges from M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, who have taken considerable territory in the eastern part of the country.

A State Department spokesperson emphasized the US’s willingness to discuss partnerships in this sector, noting the DRC’s “substantial share of the world’s critical minerals necessary for advanced technologies.” The US is also in similar talks with Ukraine about a minerals agreement. The spokesperson highlighted efforts to boost US private sector investment in the DRC to responsibly and transparently develop its mining resources.

Although the DRC government has not officially presented a proposal, spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed the country is looking to diversify its international partnerships. He stated that if American investors show interest in the DRC, there would be opportunities available, as the country has ample reserves and would benefit from US capital investment.

Recently, Andre Wameso, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Félix Tshisekedi, visited Washington to explore partnership possibilities. On February 21, Pierre Kanda Kalambayi, the Chair of the DRC Senate’s Defense Committee, reached out to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials, inviting US investment in the DRC’s critical minerals sector in return for support in enhancing regional stability.

However, Congolese authorities later clarified that this initiative had not been formally approved by the government or presidency. Nevertheless, discussions between the two nations continue at various diplomatic and technical levels. Meanwhile, intense fighting persists in eastern DRC, with M23 rebels reportedly capturing Nyabiondo, a town approximately 100 kilometers north of Goma, after fierce clashes with pro-government forces.