The Democratic Republic of Congo has indicated it may turn to other global partners if its minerals cooperation deal with the United States fails to produce concrete investments.
Speaking at the Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town, Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba explained that the arrangement with Washington remains a preliminary framework rather than a binding investment deal. He stressed that it simply provides a structure for discussions on areas of mutual interest.
According to Kabamba, the partnership could develop into a significant project, but it may also fail to attract U.S. interest. In that case, he noted, the DRC would continue engaging other potential partners.
As the world’s largest cobalt producer and a major supplier of copper, the DRC holds a critical position in global energy transition and electric vehicle supply chains. In December, Kinshasa signed a framework agreement with Washington to support the development of critical minerals supply chains for data centres, defence systems and electric vehicles, while also presenting priority mining projects for possible American investment.
While the United States seeks to secure greater access to strategic resources and reduce China’s dominance in mineral supply chains, Kabamba emphasized that the DRC is focused on safeguarding its own national interests. He said the country does not intend to be drawn into geopolitical rivalry, but instead aims to address domestic challenges, improve livelihoods and invest in its youth.
Although Chinese firms currently dominate much of the DRC’s mining sector, Washington has been pursuing supply agreements and leveraging state-backed financing in an effort to diversify and strengthen its presence in the industry.