The United States has denied claims that it is helping fund a new paramilitary force in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), after Congolese officials announced plans to create a special unit to guard mining operations.
At first, Congo’s mining authority said the new force would receive $100 million through partnerships with the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates. But the U.S. quickly pushed back, saying it is not funding any paramilitary groups. Congo later clarified that the money would come from multiple partners, not directly from any one government.
This new unit is meant to improve security in the country’s mining sector, which is extremely important worldwide. The DRC produces about 70% of the world’s cobalt—a key material used in electric batteries—and also has large reserves of copper, coltan, and lithium.
However, the country has long faced serious problems with illegal mining and violence, especially in the eastern regions where armed groups, including the M23 rebels, are active. These conflicts have caused many deaths and forced people to flee their homes.
The planned force will start with a few thousand trained personnel and could grow to over 20,000 by 2028. Its job will be to protect mining sites, escort valuable minerals, and make the industry safer for investors. The goal is to bring more stability and stronger control over the country’s rich natural resources.
Source: Newstimehub
