Several mining companies from United States are reportedly interested in exploiting the Rubaya mines in Democratic Republic of the Congo, an area believed to contain nearly 15% of the world’s coltan reserves.
The government of Democratic Republic of the Congo has provided the United States with a list of mining sites that American companies could potentially operate, following an economic cooperation agreement signed between the two countries in late 2025.
However, the AFC/M23 alliance criticized the move, arguing that Kinshasa cannot offer the Rubaya mines while it does not control them. The group said the decision highlights what it described as the government’s continued setbacks in the conflict between the two sides.
Under the agreement, the United States was expected to assess whether the listed mines—including those in Rubaya located in the Masisi territory—contain strategic minerals required by American industries.
According to Reuters on April 20, 2026, a senior official from the United States Department of State said Washington is currently waiting for feedback from American mining companies regarding the list submitted by Kinshasa.
The official noted that interest in Rubaya is particularly high. “Rubaya is something we want. Many companies are interested, and discussions are ongoing,” the official said.
The United States reportedly views Rubaya as a key factor in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, suggesting that developing the mines under the Washington agreement could contribute to a potential solution.
The AFC/M23 alliance has controlled Rubaya since May 2024. Before that, the area had been occupied by forces from Burundi, the Congolese army, and armed groups associated with the Wazalendo coalition.
