DRC Signs Mining Deal with KoBold Metals to Boost Exploration

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has taken a big step forward in developing its mineral wealth and attracting responsible global investment. On July 17, 2025, in Kinshasa, the DRC government and KoBold Metals, a U.S.-based mining company, signed a new cooperation agreement focused on mineral exploration and economic growth.

This deal comes just weeks after a peace agreement was signed between Congo and Rwanda, backed by the United States, showing that diplomacy and development can go hand in hand.

What Is KoBold Metals?

KoBold Metals is an American mineral exploration company supported by major investors, including Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. The company uses advanced artificial intelligence and geological technology to find and develop critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, copper, and nickel, the kinds of minerals that power electric vehicles, smartphones, and batteries.

KoBold is already interested in the Manono lithium deposit, one of the largest known lithium reserves in the world. But now, their ambitions go further, toward new exploration zones across the country.

What Does the New Agreement Say?

The agreement signed in Kinshasa includes 7 key points. Here are the most important:

1. Digitizing Congo’s mineral data: KoBold will work with the DRC’s National Geological Service to make old mining data available to the public, helping scientists, companies, and the government.

2. Launching a large-scale exploration program: KoBold will use world-class technology to search for valuable minerals across over 1,600 square kilometers of land, making it one of the largest mineral exploration efforts in DRC history.

3. Developing Manono’s lithium deposit: The government supports KoBold’s plan to unlock the full potential of this important mine, which has been delayed for years.

4. Fast-tracking permits and cooperation: The government will work closely with KoBold to ensure exploration permits are processed quickly and transparently.

5. Appointing an official envoy: To make communication easier, the DRC will assign an envoy to help guide and support KoBold’s work inside the country.

Why This Deal Matters for Congo

This partnership is more than just a business deal. It is a clear signal that Congo is ready to lead in the global energy future by using its mineral resources wisely. For years, Congo’s riches have been a source of conflict and exploitation. But this new model focuses on:

• Transparency

• International best practices

• Community development and environmental protection

KoBold has agreed to follow strict environmental and social guidelines (CDP and ESP standards), as well as rules from the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).

The agreement also connects to broader U.S. goals in the region. KoBold supports the idea of using the Lobito Corridor, a rail and port project, to move Congolese minerals to international markets more securely and efficiently. This shows how mining can become a tool for regional peace, trade, and prosperity.

President Félix Tshisekedi personally welcomed KoBold’s CEO, Kurt House, to Kinshasa, showing high-level support for the project. The presence of Congo’s Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, and KoBold DRC Director Benjamin Katabuka at the signing also shows full cooperation between the two parties.

While many mining deals in Congo have led to corruption, pollution, and inequality, this one promises a different path. With American support, high-tech tools, and full transparency, this agreement can bring real value to Congolese communities, create jobs, and grow the economy, if all sides stay committed.

The world needs Congo’s minerals. But this time, Congo, as President Tshisekedi told President Biden, is saying: we want win-win partnerships, not exploitation

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