- The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has issued two Letters of Interest aimed at deepening U.S. partnerships with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, expanding access to critical minerals, and bolstering economic and infrastructure development across Central and Southern Africa.
The first Letter of Interest outlines a potential DFC equity investment in a joint venture between Gécamines SA, the DRC’s state-owned mining company, and Mercuria Energy Trading, a global commodities firm. The proposed partnership seeks to enhance the commercialisation of copper, cobalt, and other critical minerals, improving transparency and competitiveness in the sector while increasing local economic benefits. The initiative is designed to strengthen U.S. and allied access to responsibly sourced minerals that are essential to national and economic security.
A second Letter of Interest focusses on a major infrastructure initiative with Mota Engil Engenharia e Construção África S.A. The project would support the rehabilitation, operation, and eventual transfer of the Dilolo–Sakania railway line in the DRC. Following full review, the undertaking could seek up to $1 billion in DFC financing. Once restored, the railway would connect with Angola’s Lobito Atlantic Railway, creating a strategic regional corridor intended to boost trade, spur private-sector investment, and improve the movement of goods and passengers across Central and Southern Africa.
“These investments are prime examples of President Trump’s unprecedented commitment to advancing peace,” DFC CEO Ben Black said in a statement, noting that the initiatives aim to secure vital supply chains, expand economic opportunity, and strengthen U.S. competitiveness. “By working with partners that share our values of transparency, accountability, and fair competition, we are helping to build a peaceful, prosperous future for the United States and our allies across Africa.”
The announcements followed the signing of the Washington Accords, a peace agreement and declaration of principles presided over by President Donald J. Trump and signed by DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The accords reaffirm commitments to regional stability and cooperation.
DFC officials emphasised that the projects align with broader U.S. efforts to diversify global supply chains, reduce reliance on vulnerable sourcing channels, and support sustainable economic growth. The agency’s involvement forms part of a wider strategy to mobilise private investment in support of U.S. foreign policy objectives while delivering returns to American taxpayers.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
