DRC : President Félix Tshisekedi’s reactions to the protocol agreement between the EU and Rwanda on mining

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, strongly reacted to the signing of a protocol agreement between the European Union (EU) and Rwanda on February 19th.

This agreement, aimed at strengthening cooperation in the mining sector, particularly for strategic metals such as tantalum, gold, and tungsten, has sparked strong reactions from the Congolese president.

« It’s as if the European Union is waging war against us by proxy », said Félix Tshisekedi on Thursday, February 22nd. He also emphasized that « when you buy the product of a fence », you are yourself guilty of theft, referring to accusations of looting of mineral resources from eastern DRC leveled against Rwanda.

These statements resonated with Jean Pierre Okenda, representative of Resource Matters in the DRC, who believes it is legitimate for the DRC to want to know more about the geological data related to this agreement. « The DRC absolutely must, it is its legitimate right, better understand the contours that led the EU to sign an agreement that potentially could have effects of intensifying the conflict in eastern DRC », he said.

However, he also emphasizes that Rwanda and the EU also have the right to seek partnerships, highlighting the sovereignty of each party. This nuanced position reflects the political and economic complexities surrounding the issue of mineral resources in the region.

The timing of this agreement is particularly sensitive, as the conflict escalates between the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, and the Congolese army in the North Kivu province.

This situation adds a critical dimension to the issues, accentuating concerns about the potential impact of this agreement on the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.

President Tshisekedi’s reaction underscores the persistent tensions and growing concerns regarding the links between mineral resources, armed conflicts, and international agreements in the Great Lakes region of Africa.