The DRC possesses mineral wealth valued at an estimated $24 trillion, making it the richest country in the world in terms of untapped resources. However, despite this vast wealth, the Congolese people continue to struggle with extreme poverty.
A 2024 World Bank report revealed that 73.5% of the Congolese population survives on less than $2.15 per day.
While Tshisekedi struggles to improve the lives of his citizens, the armed group M23 continues to seize territories from the Congolese army in North and South Kivu provinces.
Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, using this claim to push for sanctions against Rwanda and the rebel group from countries like the U.S. Rwanda refutes the claim, and blames Congo for collaboration with FDLR rettorist group.
He has now tied this request to potential business deals, promising lucrative mining contracts to American companies in exchange for action against Rwanda and M23.
In an interview with Fox News on 19 March 2025, Tshisekedi emphasised his desire to deepen cooperation with the U.S., citing its global influence.
'We believe that the United States, given its global standing and role, is a key partner we should work with. We are also pleased to see that under Trump's administration, things are moving swiftly for both sides,' he said.
The DRC holds a significant share of the world's mineral reserves, including 70% of the global cobalt supplyâ€"essential for electric vehicle batteriesâ€"along with 60% of coltan, tin, gold, and diamonds.
Tshisekedi stated that he wants to collaborate with a country that can both enhance DRC's security and help process its minerals locally instead of exporting raw materials.
He believes that the agreements with the U.S. will help reduce poverty in DRC by creating jobs.
'We want to mine these minerals but also process them here to create more jobs. We seek partnerships that will bring lasting peace and security to our country,' he added.
When asked how these agreements would contribute to DRC's security, Tshisekedi explained that strengthening the country's military capabilities is a priority and that the U.S. could use its influence to pressure armed groups operating in the region.
'We must build the capacity of our security forces. I believe the U.S. has the power to exert pressure and impose sanctions to control the armed groups destabilising our country,' he said.
When asked what the U.S. stands to gain from these agreements, Tshisekedi pointed out that American tech companies would benefit from a steady supply of high-quality minerals for their advanced manufacturing processes.
China is currently the dominant player in DRC's mining sector, controlling several mining sites across the country. Beijing has also supplied Tshisekedi's government with military equipment, including CH-4 drones, to combat M23 rebels.
Tshisekedi recalled that in the 1970s and 1980s, the U.S. played a significant role in DRC's mining industry. He expressed his willingness to return to those arrangements.
'They say 'a vacuum will always be filled.' It's not that China has increased its presence in Africa, but rather that the U.S. has withdrawn. We would be delighted to see our American friends back, as they were more involved here than the Chinese in the 1970s and 1980s,' he remarked.
While Tshisekedi continues to push for sanctions against Rwanda, the DRC government has maintained its cooperation with the FDLR, an armed group considered a terrorist organisation.
The FDLR was founded by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The DRC government has reportedly pledged to support the group in its objective of overthrowing the Rwandan government.
Attempting to deflect criticism of his support for the FDLR, Tshisekedi claimed that the international community had asked DRC to host 'Rwandan refugees' after the genocide, which, according to him, led to ongoing instability in the country.
He now uses this argument to justify his appeal for sanctions against Rwanda.
IGIHE
