DRC Signals It Could Seek New Mining Partner if U.S. Deal Falters

CAPE TOWN, February 11, 2026 - Louis Watum Kabamba, Minister of Mineral Resources of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, said Kinshasa may look for another mining partner if its agreement with the United States fails to deliver benefits. He made the remarks at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town. The agreement, signed on December 4, 2025, allows American investors access to several mining sites in exchange for U.S. support in strengthening the DRC’s security systems. Kabamba stressed the deal remains at a preliminary stage and has not transferred ownership of resources. “It could result in a good and big project, or another that is not very profitable. We will continue because there are many partners to discuss,” he said, adding:“We have not sold anything and we will not sell anything if we do not profit.” Despite its vast resources, the minister noted that only about 10% of the country’s minerals are currently exploited. He also downplayed the geopolitical competition between Washington and Beijing, saying the DRC would prioritize its own national interests. Earlier in January 2026, Kinshasa reportedly sent Washington a list of targeted resources including manganese, gold, lithium, copper, and cobalt, key materials for electric vehicle batteries and electronics manufacturing. Potential sites include Kisenge and Mutoshi (Lualaba), Moto (Haut-Uélé), Kilo (Ituri), as well as deposits in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Maniema.