The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently in the process of counting votes from the presidential election held on December 20-21, with current leader Félix Tshisekedi appearing to be the winner, having won over 80 percent of the vote so far according to the electoral commission. The election is significant for both the citizens of the DRC and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), with the nation having vast mineral resources that are of interest to the CCP.
This election follows the historic 2019 presidential election that marked the first peaceful transfer of power in 63 years, resulting in Tshisekedi’s election. A key focus of the election was the cleaning up of the mining industry, heightening tensions between the local government, the populace and Chinese-owned mining companies that dominate the production of critical minerals.
The DRC holds the world’s leading source of cobalt, with Chinese companies extracting a substantial share of the nation’s cobalt production. This has led to significant Chinese investment in the DRC, and its mineral industry. Tshisekedi has voiced concerns about mining contracts that did not fully benefit the DRC, emphasizing the need for better cooperation terms with Chinese authorities.
As part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals, the United States announced a $250 million financing plan for the Lobito Atlantic Rail Corridor in Africa, providing an alternative transportation route for minerals mined in Angola, the DRC, and Zambia. Additionally, the U.S. has been re-engaging with Africa to challenge China’s dominance in the mining industry.
In the midst of these shifting dynamics and increasing U.S. involvement, Chinese enterprises have faced challenges in the DRC, including allegations of evading royalty fees and conflicts with local communities. These challenges raise questions about the future of Chinese mining operations in the DRC as global powers seek to assert dominance in the region.