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A senior official in US President Donald Trump’s administration has confirmed ongoing discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) regarding the development of its vast mineral resources.
Massad Boulos, Trump’s senior advisor for Africa, hinted at a potential “multibillion-dollar investment” but provided no further details. His remarks followed a meeting with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa on Thursday, amid speculation of a minerals-for-security agreement.
“We have reviewed Congo’s proposal and I am pleased to announce that the president and I have agreed on a path forward for its development,” Boulos stated.
He assured that US companies involved in the deal would operate “transparently” and help “stimulate local economies.”
Congo’s Mineral Wealth and Security Challenges
The DRC is the world’s largest producer of cobalt, a key component in lithium-ion batteries used for electric vehicles and smartphones. The country also has vast reserves of gold, diamonds, and copper.
However, much of these resources are located in eastern Congo, where Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have intensified their insurgency, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis. Over seven million people have been displaced, and acute hunger is at record levels.
Tshisekedi has expressed hope that a US partnership could contribute to both economic growth and national security.
