Washington Approves New DFC Investments in Africa to Secure Critical Minerals and Energy

February 23, 2026 - The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has approved strategic investments in Africa aimed at strengthening critical mineral supply chains, energy security, and the sovereignty and stability of key partner nations. According to DFC Managing Director Ben Black, these investments are designed to support economic development, enhance energy resilience, and consolidate supply chains essential to U.S. growth, security, and innovation. While the specific transactions remain confidential, they are part of a broader U.S. effort to expand strategic influence in Africa. All projects will undergo further steps, including Congressional notification, prior to final commitment and closing. The approval follows a recent expansion of the DFC’s authority by the U.S. Congress, which: Removed geographic restrictions in strategic sectors. Raised the agency’s investment ceiling to $205 billion. Strengthened equity financing capabilities and created a new revolving investment fund. In mid-February, the United States and the African Union Commission launched a strategic working group on infrastructure and investment, tasked with translating strategic priorities into fundable projects. A cross-border pilot project has been proposed as a proof of concept, with the Democratic Republic of Congo explicitly mentioned, potentially within a regional economic integration framework with Rwanda. Targeted sectors include infrastructure and critical mineral supply chains, with an emphasis on commercial viability and alignment with Agenda 2063. The U.S. plans to leverage financial instruments such as the DFC, U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM), and multilateral banks, while supporting regulatory reforms and legal harmonization to mitigate risks. The DFC board meeting included both public and private sector members, and a public hearing was held to gather stakeholder input on the agency’s activities. Social and Health