Burundi has entered into two new mining agreements with companies from the United States as Washington increases its economic involvement in Africa’s critical minerals industry, which is becoming increasingly important to global supply chains supporting energy-transition technologies.
The agreements were concluded in Washington, D.C. and signed by Hassan Kibeya, according to a statement released by the United States Embassy in Burundi.
Through the first agreement, Lifezone Metals will collaborate with Burundi on the development of a large-scale nickel mining project. The venture is expected to generate employment opportunities and increase the country’s export capacity, given Burundi’s considerable but largely undeveloped mineral resources.
The second arrangement involves KoBold Metals, which will digitize Burundi’s mining records without any financial cost to the government.
Authorities say transforming historical mining information into a digital database will enhance transparency, improve regulatory monitoring and make the mining sector more appealing to potential investors.
U.S. eyes Africa’s critical minerals
The agreements come at a time when the United States is stepping up efforts to secure reliable supplies of minerals required for electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies and other advanced industrial applications.
Many African countries possess substantial reserves of strategic minerals such as cobalt, lithium, nickel and rare earth elements, positioning the continent as a key arena in the growing global competition for these resources.
Companies like KoBold Metals have been increasing exploration activities across Africa by using artificial intelligence and sophisticated geological data analysis to locate mineral deposits. The firm already runs projects in several African countries as part of a broader strategy aimed at diversifying global mineral supply chains.
For Burundi, the new deals could represent a significant move toward unlocking the potential of its mining sector. The country is known to hold deposits of nickel, gold, coltan and rare earth elements, but limited infrastructure and investment have historically hindered large-scale exploitation.
By working with international mining companies and modernising its mining administration, Burundi aims to attract additional investment into the sector while positioning itself as an emerging participant in Africa’s expanding critical minerals market.