DRC Officials Back 'Minerals-for-Security' U.S. Agreements

Daftar Isi

A New Era of Partnership and Challenges

Last weekend, President Félix Tshisekedi returned from Washington with a sense of triumph, having signed a significant agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. His arrival in Kinshasa was met with a hero’s welcome, as crowds cheered for what they believed was an end to the long-standing conflict. Beyond this agreement, another major deal was sealed — this time with the United States on “Strategic Partnership.” This partnership is often described in Kinshasa as a “mines for security agreement,” but it extends far beyond the mining sector, aiming to help the DRC benefit from its natural resources while maintaining peace.

Senior Congolese officials have emphasized that the agreements between the DRC and the United States are not solely about securing resources for security purposes. Daniel Mukoko Samba, Deputy Prime Minister in charge of the economy, clarified that the focus is on the exploration, extraction, and processing of critical minerals. However, the agreement also includes broader projects aimed at transforming the DRC. One such example is the Grand Inga project, a massive dam requiring over $10 billion to initiate. This project has been a concern for several organizations, including the African Union, which believes it could generate 43,200MW of power, supporting regional energy pools and promoting clean, affordable electricity across Africa.

The agreement also highlights the Lobito Corridor, a transformative infrastructure project promoted by the Biden administration. This initiative aims to connect the DRC to the Angolan port of Lobito on the Atlantic Ocean. It is expected to strengthen critical mineral supply chains, improve regional connectivity, and stimulate sustainable growth. Additionally, the project is anticipated to open new trade routes between Central Africa, the United States, and Europe.

Samba noted that the agreement allows the DRC to decide which development projects it deems strategic. The list of these projects will be communicated to the US side soon, and vice versa. According to André Wameso, Governor of the Central Bank of Congo, the economic agreement marks a historic turning point. He reflected on the past, where the DRC's resources were exploited without input from the local population. Today, he sees a shift, with the DRC engaging in discussions about access to raw materials for a new industrial revolution.

However, the success of these agreements hinges on the restoration of peace, a goal the DRC has pursued for over three decades. Samba emphasized that all deals under the Washington Accords prioritize peace as a prerequisite for economic cooperation. The DRC's strategy involves cutting off financial and logistical channels of violence by eradicating illegal exploitation of gold, coltan, cobalt, and other resources, as well as smuggling that fuels insecurity.

President Tshisekedi expressed his belief that diplomatic efforts are leading the region toward a turning point, where peace is once again within reach. Yet, on the ground, there are challenges. Despite the recent agreement, Rwanda is accused of not fulfilling its commitments. The AFC/M23 have intensified their attacks, particularly in South Kivu, with the Congolese army confirming increased hostilities since December 4.

While many hope for a return to peace, some observers argue that the negotiated peace is a false one. Dady Saleh, a lecturer and security analyst, suggests that the DRC must focus on strengthening its army before building lasting peace. The path ahead remains complex, but the agreements signed in Washington represent a significant step forward, offering both opportunities and challenges for the DRC.