Critical Minerals: Strategic Synergy for Green Transition.

Written by Dr. David A. Johnson – Conflict & Security Research Lead

To secure its energy future and green transition, the U.S. has prioritized partnerships with African nations rich in cobalt, lithium, and rare earths. Since 2025, this strategy has integrated upstream resource extraction with downstream value addition.

Key Initiatives:

– Local Value Creation: DFC and private firms invested in Congolese cobalt mines and Zambian copper-lithium projects, paired with processing facilities to retain higher-value outputs.

– Infrastructure Support: The Lobito Corridor—a $553 million rail project—connects DRC/Zambia to Angola’s port, slashing logistics costs and revitalizing regional economies.

– Capacity Building: U.S. geological agencies and engineering firms collaborated on mineral exploration and trained African personnel in processing and safety protocols.

Analysis:

This holistic approach transforms Africa from a raw material supplier to a green supply chain stakeholder. For the U.S., it reduces reliance on China while bolstering critical mineral security.

However, geopolitical tensions, price volatility, and equitable profit-sharing remain challenges to long-term viability.