Strategic Shifts in the DRC–USA Critical Minerals Agreement
Peace, Power, and the Politics of Investment
The draft cooperation agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the United States on critical minerals is advancing amid high geopolitical stakes and complex regional dynamics. Following the DRC government’s confirmation of interest, the Trump administration has stepped up its engagement with a dual focus on security and investment.
Two Pivotal Developments:
- A visit by U.S. special envoys to both Kinshasa and Kigali.
- The sponsorship of a declaration of principles between the DRC and Rwanda, envisioned as a foundation for eventual peace.
In Kinshasa, Special Adviser Massad Boulos emphasized that economic engagement would depend on more than peace alone. He pointed to the urgent need for anti-corruption measures, legal reforms, and a predictable business environment as key preconditions for American investment.
In Kigali, Boulos met with President Paul Kagame and reportedly secured the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of M23 troops from Walikale, a major mining area. This also cleared the way for Alpha Mine Bisie, an American-owned company, to resume operations—showcasing Washington’s ability to secure its commercial interests under the guise of peace diplomacy.
A Fragile Balance
While the agreement remains under negotiation, its implementation is conditioned on two fronts:
- Restoration of security in eastern DRC.
- Tangible improvements to the business and regulatory climate.
U.S. officials frame the deal as a pathway to strengthening both security cooperation and economic ties with Africa through trade and foreign direct investment. However, critics are wary.
Corruption in public institutions, political interference, and opaque governance remain formidable obstacles. Many of those accused of undermining the business environment enjoy protection from high-level political networks.
Calls for Transparency and Participation
Several civil society organizations in the DRC are raising concerns over the lack of public oversight in the agreement’s development. They are demanding:
- Inclusion in the negotiation process.
- Greater transparency from both the DRC and U.S. governments.
Without these assurances, many fear that the agreement could reinforce elite capture of mineral wealth while failing to deliver accountability, community benefit, or structural reform.