The United States is nearing an agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that would increase American companies’ control over critical mineral assets in exchange for enhanced support for the embattled Kinshasa government. The deal, which aims to foster private sector investment in Congo’s mining sector, was confirmed by Massad Boulos, senior Africa adviser to President Donald Trump. Following discussions with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, Boulos announced a “path forward” for developing this partnership.
The agreement would enable U.S. firms to invest in Congo’s vast reserves of copper, cobalt, and lithium—essential minerals for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies. This initiative seeks to counter China’s dominance in Congo’s mining sector, where Chinese companies control 15 of the largest copper and cobalt mines. Among the companies eyeing opportunities are KoBold Metals, Orion Resource Partners, Rio Tinto, and Saudi Arabia’s United Mining.
The deal also includes provisions for U.S.-backed security assistance to help Congo combat armed insurgencies, particularly the Rwanda-supported M23 rebels who have seized mineral-rich territories in eastern Congo. This security cooperation is critical as the region faces challenges from over 140 armed groups. The U.S. has already brokered agreements that led to rebel withdrawals near key mining sites such as Alphamin Resources’ tin mine.
While details remain scarce, the framework proposes integrating mining operations with infrastructure development, including roads and industrial zones that would facilitate processed metal exports via neighboring countries. The partnership could reshape global supply chains by reducing reliance on Chinese-controlled mineral channels.
