DR Congo To Finalize Minerals Deal With Washington in June
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is preparing to wrap up a minerals deal with the USA by the end of June. The effort could combine a U.S.-backed peace agreement with Rwanda with expanded access for American companies to Congo’s vast deposits of lithium, cobalt, and coltan– materials critical to global technology and power sectors. According to the Financial Times (FT), two sources close to the negotiations indicated that an investment agreement and a peace framework could be achieved before the end of next month, although key obstacles remain unresolved. DRC has long relied on Chinese investments and is turning to the West to develop its resource sector. Speaking to the FT, Congo’s Mines Minister Kizito Pakabomba noted the government’s desire to…
Complete story available on Benzinga.com
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is preparing to finalize a minerals deal with the USA by the end of June. The effort could integrate a U.S.-backed peace agreement with Rwanda with expanded access for American companies to Congo’s vast deposits of lithium, cobalt, and coltan– materials critical to global technology and power sectors. According to the Financial Times (FT), two sources close to the negotiations suggested that an investment agreement and a peace framework could be achieved before the end of next month, although key obstacles remain unresolved. DRC has long relied on Chinese investments and is turning to the West to develop its resource sector. Speaking to the FT, Congo’s Mines Minister Kizito Pakabomba noted the government’s desire to “diversify our partnerships,” reducing dependence on Beijing. However, any deal will be closely tied to resolving the conflict in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels (allegedly supported by Rwanda) have taken control of key cities like Goma and Bukavu, following an escalation in January. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of using the turmoil to smuggle millions of dollars’ worth of minerals every month. Rwanda denies backing M23 but claims it is fighting aggressive forces in the DRC. Talks have been complicated by Congo’s insistence that no sanctioned mineral trade involving Rwanda can occur until rebel fighters and Rwandan troops withdraw from occupied territory. Markets anticipate price cuts– but your profits do not have to suffer. Secure 7.2% until 2028 from ten individual bonds. The latest reports have not clarified whether the deal will involve Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater. Prince reportedly reached an agreement with Congolese authorities before the January escalation to provide security and enhance mineral taxation. By April, sources suggested he may deploy contractors to protect revenue streams and reduce smuggling, particularly in copper-rich Katanga. Although his companies lack formal ties to the U.S. government, Prince’s African connections make him a potentially influential player in any mineral management framework. Several companies stand to benefit from a U.S.-Congo partnership, but AI-powered start-up KoBold Metals is particularly well-positioned. Backed by investors like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, KoBold is planning to invest billions in Congolese lithium deposits, seeing the region as a hub in its mission to source critical minerals ethically. KoBold’s AI exploration tools can identify new reserves with greater accuracy and transparency. Therefore, if diplomatic efforts succeed, the company can develop a flagship asset in one of the most resource-rich areas globally. Read Next: Gold, Copper Drive Canadian Mining As Sector Pushes For Reforms
Image: Shutterstock/Maksym Kapliuk © 2025 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not offer investment advice. All rights reserved.
