Kinshasa: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have moved closer to a potentially historic economic partnership, unveiling a draft agreement that seeks to revamp the region’s critical minerals trade. The plan, which brings in the United States and other international actors, is designed to stabilize one of the world’s most resource-rich yet conflict-prone regions.
The draft framework follows a landmark peace deal signed in Washington this past June, which sought to end years of deadly conflict in eastern Congo. That accord called for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese soil and for action against armed groups such as the FDLR, which has long destabilized the region. Building on that fragile peace, the new mineral pact is seen as a crucial test of whether economic cooperation can sustain reconciliation.
At the core of the agreement is a pledge to align with international standards for mineral trade, including OECD guidelines. Congo and Rwanda have both committed to stricter oversight of mining operations, independent audits, and cross-border transparency to ensure that cobalt, tantalum, gold, and lithium are not financing armed groups. By introducing third-party inspection mechanisms, the draft aims to give foreign investors’ confidence in the legitimacy of supply chains.
The deal highlights Washington’s increasing strategic interest in Africa’s mineral wealth, especially as global demand for cobalt and lithium surges in the clean energy and electric vehicle sectors. The United States, along with donor countries and multilateral bodies, is expected to provide technical assistance, financial backing, and governance expertise. This reflects a broader push by Western powers to reduce reliance on Chinese-dominated supply chains for critical minerals.
Another feature of the draft agreement is the creation of cross-border special economic zones. These would be equipped with infrastructure, energy systems, and processing plants to ensure that more of the mineral value chain remains in Africa rather than being exported in raw form. Officials believe this could spur job creation, enhance regional integration, and increase revenues for both Kinshasa and Kigali.
Despite its ambition, the framework faces formidable obstacles. Security remains the foremost challenge. While Rwanda has pledged troop withdrawals, Kinshasa has expressed skepticism, warning that ongoing military presence undermines trust. Rebel groups, particularly M23, continue to disrupt eastern Congo, raising fears that renewed violence could unravel economic cooperation. Moreover, the sheer complexity of coordinating governments, private investors, and international agencies could delay implementation.
If successful, the pact could serve as a model for linking peace with economic development. For Congo, the world’s top cobalt supplier, the agreement offers a chance to finally capture fairer value from its natural resources. For Rwanda, it could provide legitimacy to its role in regional mineral trade. And for the United States, it secures a foothold in one of the world’s most strategic resource frontiers.
The draft is expected to be finalized and presented for signature in October. Analysts say the coming weeks will be critical, as political leaders weigh the costs of compromise against the benefits of economic stability. Investors and watchdogs alike will be monitoring whether promises of transparency and reform translate into real change on the ground.