US-China Mineral Race in Africa Heats Up: A New Geopolitical Battlefield

The race between the US and China for control of Africa’s critical minerals is entering a new, high-stakes phase. According to Bloomberg (March 4), the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has proposed an exclusive deal granting the US privileged access to its vast mineral resources and infrastructure projects in exchange for security assistance, as the country battles a rebellion allegedly backed by Rwanda.

See more: The Mineral Race: U.S. and China Compete for Global Resource Domination

China’s Dominance vs. America’s Ambition

In a letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Congo suggested an urgent meeting between President Felix Tshisekedi and President Donald Trump to discuss the deal. The proposed partnership offers the US a rare chance to secure a reliable, exclusive supply chain for essential minerals—countering China’s current dominance.

Congo, one of the world's richest nations in natural resources, supplies nearly 90% of China’s cobalt imports (2020 figures). China not only leads in trade but also tops foreign direct investment in Africa. In 2023, Beijing poured around $21.7 billion into the continent, with $8–10 billion earmarked for critical mineral projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.

America’s Strategic Pivot

According to the Atlantic Council, while China has a significant foothold in Africa’s mineral market, the US and its Western allies have long lagged behind. In 2023, the US invested $7.4 billion across Africa, but only $300 million went into mining—just 4% of total investment. However, with President Trump’s renewed focus, the tide may turn. On the first day of his second term, Trump signed an executive order prioritizing mineral extraction and processing, signaling a strategic pivot toward African resources.

Opportunity and Risk for Africa

For African nations, this fierce competition offers both opportunity and potential risk. Yun Sun, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, warned that while Africa stands to benefit economically, countries must carefully weigh the risks of entanglement in geopolitical rivalries. “Africa can benefit from US-China competition, but governments must stay vigilant to avoid becoming a pawn in this high-stakes game,” she emphasized.

Beyond China and the US, other global players—including Russia, South Korea, Canada, and the UK—are also strengthening their presence. Russian companies like Wagner Group and Uranium One have already secured strategic mining projects, while Western nations are forging long-term partnerships to solidify supply chain resilience.

Africa: The New Center of the Global Mineral Race

As critical minerals become ever more essential for global industries and green energy transitions, Africa is poised to be the next major battleground. In the coming years, experts predict even fiercer competition, making it crucial for African countries to craft smart, balanced strategies to harness benefits while safeguarding their sovereignty.

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