Congo offers US, Europe minerals in exchange for peace

More than three-quarters of the world’s cobalt comes from Congo—Image courtesy of The Impact Facility

|Published 2:30 PM ET, Tuesday February 25, 2025|

In a strategic move to address ongoing conflict and economic exploitation, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi has proposed granting the United States and European nations direct access to the country’s vast mineral resources. This offer is contingent upon Western intervention to halt the activities of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, which has seized significant territories in eastern DRC, including the key cities of Goma and Bukavu.

Presidential spokesperson Tina Salama emphasized the urgency of this appeal, urging the U.S. and Europe to purchase critical minerals directly from the DRC rather than through Rwanda, which has been accused of looting and smuggling resources from Congolese territory. Salama stated, “President Tshisekedi invites the USA… to purchase [strategic raw materials] directly from us, the rightful owners.”

The DRC is a leading global producer of essential minerals such as cobalt, copper, and coltan, which are vital components in modern technologies, including electric vehicle batteries and electronic devices. However, the ongoing conflict, fueled by the M23’s control over mineral-rich regions, has led to significant loss of life—over 7,000 deaths reported this year—and has disrupted the nation’s ability to benefit from its natural wealth.

This proposal comes amid increasing international scrutiny of Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the DRC’s internal conflicts and the illicit trade of conflict minerals. The European Union has signaled a potential reassessment of its raw materials agreement with Rwanda, reflecting growing concerns over the ethical sourcing of minerals.

By seeking direct partnerships with Western nations, the DRC aims to ensure that the profits from its mineral resources contribute to national development and stability, rather than fueling further conflict. This initiative underscores the critical need for transparent and ethical supply chains in the global minerals market, as well as the importance of international collaboration in promoting peace and economic justice in conflict-affected regions.