Trading Minerals for Security: Why Africa’s Latest Deal Could Backfire

Aug 4, 2025 | Conversation
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Recently, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda struck a US-brokered peace deal that exchanges mineral wealth for vague security promises. Signed in June 2025, the agreement aims to end decades of conflict by binding both nations to a US-backed economic framework, prioritizing American-controlled mineral supply chains. However, experts warn this “resources-for-security” model—similar to past exploitative deals by China and Russia—could strip the DRC of sovereignty while offering little real protection. The DRC, rich in cobalt, copper, and lithium, is plagued by poverty and violence—largely due to its mineral wealth. Now, it sees US military support as a lifeline. Yet history shows such bargains often lock African nations into unfair terms, stifling regulation and diverting wealth from citizens. Experts argue that for Africa to truly prosper, it must negotiate transparently, demand local value, and protect its resources.