The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is one of the world’s poorest nations but sits on riches that power modern life- cobalt, copper, and lithium. These minerals fuel smartphones, electric cars, and even weapons. China already dominates Congo’s mines, controlling most of the cobalt supply chain.

Now, “democracy” in the form of the United States and its allies, wants to land in the DRC. Under Donald Trump’s second term, Washington has tightened ties with President Félix Tshisekedi and is betting on the mineral-rich Katanga region, safer than the militia-infested east. The US-backed Lobito Corridor is pitched as a democratic alternative to China’s Belt and Road, creating new transport routes for mineral exports.

But America faces hurdles. Chinese companies already hold major stakes, corruption runs deep, and controversial figures like Israeli tycoon Dan Gertler still hold influence. Even with US start-ups like KoBold Metals, backed by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, promising high-tech exploration, new results may take a decade.

The question remains: is the US truly bringing “democracy” to Congo, or simply joining the scramble for resources? In this high-stakes race, DRC is less a democracy’s playground and more a battleground for global power.