The US is struggling to turn a newly signed minerals pact with the Democratic Republic of the Congo into tangible gains, as conflict and red tape slow efforts to counter China’s dominance. While Congo handed Washington a 44-project wishlist spanning copper to lithium, several of the assets sit in M23 rebel territory or carry legal disputes that deter Western lenders. Congolese officials are also reportedly slowing deals deliberately, hoping to pressure Washington into stronger action against Rwanda-backed rebels before opening its mineral wealth. Meanwhile, Chinese firms—already controlling more than 70% of Congo’s key mineral assets—continue advancing projects with fewer compliance hurdles. The result is a widening gap between Washington’s strategic ambitions and its ability to mobilize capital quickly in one of the world’s most critical mineral frontiers.
CNBC Africa
