DR Congo denies selling off mineral wealth under US deal
## Mineral Access Agreement with the United States
Mineral Access Agreement with the United States
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has granted the United States access to its mineral reserves without relinquishing ownership of its resources. This agreement, signed in December, coincides with a peace accord aimed at resolving the conflict in the eastern DRC. It provides access to copper, cobalt, coltan, and lithium, positioning the U.S. to enhance its mineral supply chains.
The agreement establishes a framework for negotiations between the DRC and U.S. companies concerning potential projects. These projects must adhere to the DRC's mining code. The DRC has prepared a list of strategic projects for review by a joint steering committee, which will convene in the coming weeks.
Current Developments and National Priorities
Despite the agreement, the conflict in eastern DRC persists. The DRC government remains focused on national priorities, including education and employment for its population of 120 million.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has granted the United States access to its mineral reserves without relinquishing ownership of its resources.
Currently, only about 10 percent of the DRC's natural resources are developed. The country holds significant deposits of copper, cobalt, coltan, and lithium, contributing to 76 percent of global cobalt production in 2024, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. These resources are increasingly in demand for defense, AI data centers, and energy transition industries.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
