Congo Seeks US Minerals Deal to Reduce Conflict and Cut Reliance on China

Editorial: reda El ghazal

The Democratic Republic of Congo is advancing toward a landmark agreement with the United States to attract investment in critical minerals and broker peace with Rwanda, aiming to end decades of instability in its resource-rich eastern regions. The proposed deal, expected to be finalized by late June, would allow Congo to export tungsten, tantalum, and tin to Rwanda for processing—a move intended to curb smuggling allegations that have long plagued relations between the two neighbors. Congolese officials view the pact as a strategic step to diversify partnerships and reduce dependence on China, which has dominated Congo’s mining sector since a controversial 2008 deal exchanging minerals for infrastructure with Beijing.

The U.S.-backed initiative aligns with Washington’s broader goal of countering China’s influence in Africa, but significant challenges remain. Congo insists Rwanda must withdraw support for the M23 rebel group and relinquish control of eastern territories, including Goma, before endorsing any joint mineral framework. Rwanda, however, defends its military presence near the border as necessary for security, vowing to maintain operations until threats within Congo diminish. The negotiations risk escalating regional tensions, as Congo accuses Rwanda of earning $10 million monthly from smuggled minerals—a charge Kigali denies.

By merging economic and security objectives, the U.S. aims to unlock billions in Western investment for Congo’s mining sector while stabilizing a conflict zone vital to global supply chains. Massad Boulos, a lead negotiator from the Trump administration, stressed that lasting peace and transparent mineral trade are essential to attracting foreign capital. However, success depends on bridging Congo’s territorial demands with Rwanda’s economic interests—a delicate balancing act that will test Washington’s ability to mediate one of Africa’s most complex and enduring disputes.