Faith Nyasuguta
A fierce scramble for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) vast mineral wealth is pitting global giants China and the United States against each other, even as peace efforts to end a decades-long war in eastern Congo gain new momentum.
At the heart of the contest is Congo’s rich supply of cobalt, lithium, copper, and other rare earth minerals – critical components for manufacturing electric vehicles, smartphones, solar panels, and military technologies. The DRC holds more than 60% of the world’s cobalt reserves, a vital mineral for green energy transition, giving it enormous geopolitical importance in today’s energy-hungry world.
Currently, China dominates the mining sector in Congo. Chinese companies control a significant share of cobalt and copper production through long-term contracts and joint ventures. For years, Beijing has expanded its footprint via investments in infrastructure and mining, often in exchange for access to resources. The U.S, concerned about China’s growing dominance in Africa and the global supply chain, is now seeking to recalibrate the balance.
In recent months, Washington has stepped up its diplomatic and economic engagements in Congo and the Great Lakes region. On June 27, the U.S. helped broker a major peace deal between the DRC and Rwanda -two nations whose tensions have long fueled instability in eastern Congo.
The agreement, signed in Luanda, Angola, aims to halt cross-border militia support and restart stalled regional cooperation. A major goal is to restore security in mineral-rich North Kivu and Ituri provinces, where rebel groups like M23 and ADF operate.
“This deal opens the door for peace – and for responsible investment,” a senior U.S. State Department official said after the signing. “It’s not just about ending conflict. It’s about supporting local communities and securing the world’s critical mineral supply chain.”
The timing of the peace deal is crucial. The U.S. has launched initiatives like the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), working with allies to build resilient, transparent mineral supply chains that reduce reliance on China. Washington has also pledged support for reforms in Congo’s mining governance to tackle corruption, labor abuses, and illicit smuggling.
Meanwhile, China is not backing down. Through its “Belt and Road Initiative,” it continues to finance roads, power plants, and mining infrastructure in Congo and beyond. China defends its role in Africa as mutually beneficial, pointing to job creation and development.
“We respect the sovereignty of African nations and their right to choose partners,” a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry said. “China’s cooperation with the DRC is based on equality and shared growth.”
However, critics argue that Chinese mining deals often lack transparency and exploit weak regulations. Many Congolese civil society groups have called for contract reviews, environmental protections, and better benefits for local communities.
Adding to the urgency, global demand for cobalt and lithium is skyrocketing. The shift to electric vehicles, driven by climate goals, has put Congo under the spotlight. Automakers and tech companies are under pressure to ensure their supply chains are free of conflict minerals and human rights violations.
The stakes are high – not just for China and the U.S., but for Congo itself. While foreign powers battle for influence, the Congolese people continue to suffer the effects of war, displacement, and poverty. Over 6 million people are internally displaced in eastern Congo, and rebel violence has killed thousands.
President Felix Tshisekedi has welcomed international support but insists that Congo must remain in control of its resources. “The era of exploitation must end,” he said recently. “We want partnerships that respect our laws, our people, and our environment.”
As peace talks continue and global interest in Congo’s minerals deepens, the country stands at a crossroads. Will it finally turn its resource wealth into national prosperity – or will it remain a battleground for foreign powers chasing control over the minerals of the future?
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