USIP Proposes DRC as Key Player to Counter China’s Mining Dominance in Africa
The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) has identified the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a pivotal “solution country” to address China’s significant strides in African mining.
In a recent report, USIP urges Washington to engage in robust commercial diplomacy, focusing on forging partnerships centered around critical minerals in Africa.
With the DRC being the world’s leading cobalt supplier, it presents a strategic opportunity for the United States.
Experts suggest that the U.S. government should prioritize establishing a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the DRC.
Such an MoU would guide American private investors across the entire battery metals supply chain, a sector of increasing importance in the global economy.
However, USIP acknowledges the current disparity between the United States and China in terms of investments in critical minerals and diplomatic engagement in Africa.
China’s resources and mining infrastructure far surpass those of the United States. Nevertheless, concerted efforts to attract U.S. investment to Africa could yield positive outcomes.
Notably, productive discussions between the United States and the DRC took place two months ago, involving José Fernandez, Undersecretary of the US Department of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, alongside Gécamines, the state-owned mining company.
Founded by the American Congress, USIP is an independent, non-partisan national institute dedicated to promoting a world without violent conflicts.
By collaborating with local partners in conflict zones abroad, the institute endeavors to build local capacity for peaceful conflict management, ultimately reducing future crises and the need for costly interventions.
