By Horn Africa News
KIGALI – The United States has launched a new mineral partnership with Rwanda in a deal Washington says will deliver economic benefits to both countries while strengthening global supply chains for critical resources.
Speaking on behalf of the Trump administration, the U.S. Ambassador to Rwanda announced the agreement between Trinity Metals, a Rwanda-based mining firm, and Global Tungsten & Powders, headquartered in Pennsylvania. The partnership is part of Washington’s broader strategy to secure access to minerals essential for technology, defense, and renewable energy industries.
“Proud to support the deal between Trinity Metals in Rwanda and Global Tungsten from my home state of Pennsylvania. By leveraging U.S. expertise in critical minerals, we advance deals that drive prosperity in the U.S. and Rwanda,” the ambassador said.
The announcement comes alongside Washington’s earlier claim—made under former President Donald Trump—that it had successfully brokered a peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which U.S. officials described at the time as ending decades of conflict in the Great Lakes region.
The mineral partnership, however, has sparked debate. Critics argue the U.S. is prioritizing access to Rwanda’s mining sector while overlooking the root causes of instability in eastern Congo, where militia violence and regional tensions persist.
Analysts further question whether Washington’s engagement reflects a genuine commitment to peacebuilding or primarily aims to secure Africa’s deposits of tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold—minerals critical to global supply chains.
Supporters contend the deal will boost Rwanda’s export revenues, create new business opportunities, and ensure American industries a stable supply of tungsten.
For many in the region, the agreement underscores the complex intersection of diplomacy, security, and resource politics in Central Africa.
