Lately, there has been a lot of talk about the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) getting closer to signing a deal with the United States. This agreement is focused on minerals and security. Basically, the U.S. wants access to our rich resources like cobalt, lithium, and other minerals that power electric cars, smartphones, and even renewable energy technologies. In return, they’re offering to help us with security issues in the eastern part of our country and to invest in infrastructure.
Now, on the surface, this sounds like a good thing. We get support to fight rebel groups like M23, improve transport systems, and create jobs. But here’s my concern—and I think a lot of young people like me are thinking the same thing: what happens when we want to be truly independent?
Let’s be honest. We’ve seen this story play out in other African countries. They accept deals with powerful nations, and in the beginning, things seem to be going well. There’s money, development, new roads, maybe even peace. But fast-forward a few years, and these same countries get hit with sanctions, political pressure, or worse, if they try to pull away or stand on their own feet. These big powers don’t just invest for charity—they want control, influence, and long-term access.
According to reports, the deal is set to be finalized around June 2025. U.S. companies will gain rights to mine and export minerals. In exchange, the U.S. will train our military, support our fight in the east, and work on trade routes like the Lobito Corridor. There are promises about transparency, protecting workers, and respecting the environment—but how much of that actually happens on the ground?
I’m not saying we don’t need partnerships. We do. But let’s make sure it’s a partnership, not a dependency. We must think long-term. Will this deal help us become stronger and more self-reliant as a country—or will it tie us down to foreign powers again, just like in the past?
Some African countries are trying to move independently, and yes, it’s hard. Some face sanctions, some are isolated. But the goal is freedom. Full control of their land, their economy, and their future.
As young Congolese citizens, we need to ask tough questions. Who benefits the most from this deal? What guarantees do we have that our people—not just foreign investors—will gain from our own minerals? And are we prepared for the long-term consequences if we ever want to walk away from the agreement?
This is a big decision. We shouldn’t rush into it just for short-term benefits. Minerals can build a future, but only if we stay in control of them. Let's be smart. Let's be awake. Let's not sell our future for temporary peace.
— A concerned Congolese youth🇨🇩
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