The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to play an even larger role in the global green energy revolution after granting seven exploration permits to US-based mining startup KoBold Metals, a company backed by some of the world’s most influential billionaires, including Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. The permits, announced by Congolese officials this week, cover a vast 4,500-square-kilometer stretch of land in the Manono region, home to one of the world’s richest known lithium deposits.
Lithium, often referred to as “white gold,” is a critical mineral used in the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, renewable energy storage systems, and a wide range of technologies needed for the clean energy transition. With global demand for lithium projected to quadruple by 2035, Congo’s decision to open up its lithium-rich territories to KoBold reflects both the country’s ambition to diversify its mineral economy and the increasing international scramble for strategic resources.
AI-Powered Exploration
KoBold Metals has quickly risen to prominence in the mining industry due to its unique approach to resource discovery. The California-based startup deploys artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze geological data, making exploration faster, more precise, and potentially less invasive than traditional methods.
In a statement, the company confirmed it would begin geological surveys immediately in the Manono zone. “Our advanced AI-driven technology enables us to identify new mineral resources that can accelerate the global transition to clean energy,” the company noted, adding that it is committed to working with Congolese authorities and communities to ensure responsible exploration.
KoBold is no stranger to the DRC. The firm is already developing what is expected to become the world’s largest cobalt-copper project in Kolwezi, located in the southern part of the country. That project, undertaken in partnership with state-owned mining firm Gécamines, has further solidified Congo’s reputation as a critical player in the global supply of battery materials.
Congo’s Strategic Position
The DRC already supplies around 70 percent of the world’s cobalt, another key mineral for EV batteries. By granting KoBold access to lithium exploration, Kinshasa is signaling its intention to expand beyond cobalt and position itself as a leading supplier of multiple critical minerals.
“This is a turning point for Congo,” said a senior official at the Ministry of Mines. “We have been known for cobalt for many years, but the green economy requires a basket of minerals. By tapping into lithium, we can diversify our revenues, attract new investment, and create jobs for our citizens.”
The Manono deposit has been at the center of global interest for over a decade. Once a site of tin mining, it has since been identified as one of the world’s richest sources of spodumene, the primary mineral used to extract lithium. Analysts say that if developed properly, Manono could rival major lithium projects in Australia and South America.
Concerns Over Transparency and Sustainability
Despite the optimism, civil society groups and international observers have raised concerns about how Congo manages its mineral wealth. The country has long struggled with corruption, opaque contracts, and conflicts linked to resource exploitation.
Campaigners warn that granting new exploration licenses must go hand in hand with stronger governance. “Congo has an opportunity to lead in the green energy revolution, but it must not repeat the mistakes of the past,” said Jean-Marc Kabongo, an activist with the Kinshasa-based Natural Resource Observatory. “Communities in Manono must see real benefits, contracts must be transparent, and environmental protections must be strictly enforced.”
Environmental advocates stress that lithium mining, if poorly managed, can have devastating impacts on water resources, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. They urge the government and KoBold to adopt global best practices to ensure that Congo’s lithium boom does not turn into another resource curse.
Global Implications
The race for lithium is heating up worldwide. With electric vehicle sales surging and governments pushing aggressive climate targets, countries rich in strategic minerals are increasingly courted by investors. Australia, Chile, and Argentina currently dominate lithium production, but new frontiers like the DRC are gaining attention.
KoBold’s entry into lithium exploration in Congo is being closely watched by industry players. The backing of high-profile investors such as Gates, Bezos, and venture firm Andreessen Horowitz gives the company both financial clout and credibility. Analysts say the move could trigger a wave of similar investments in Africa, as companies look to secure long-term supplies of critical minerals.
“The reality is that without Congo, the global clean energy transition will be slower and more expensive,” said Dr. Sarah Mitchell, an energy transition expert based in London. “The challenge is ensuring that mining benefits ordinary Congolese while also meeting international sustainability standards.”
Balancing Opportunity and Risk
For Kinshasa, the deal with KoBold presents both opportunities and risks. On one hand, it could generate significant revenues, create jobs, and strengthen Congo’s bargaining power in global markets. On the other hand, without robust governance, it risks exacerbating inequality and fueling corruption.
Officials insist they are taking steps to improve oversight. The Ministry of Mines has pledged to publish contracts, enforce stricter environmental regulations, and monitor community engagement. Whether these measures will be fully implemented remains to be seen.
Looking Ahead
As KoBold prepares to begin its surveys in Manono, all eyes will be on how the partnership unfolds. If successful, the project could transform Congo into a dual powerhouse for both cobalt and lithium, cementing its status as the heartbeat of the global battery industry.
But for many Congolese, the real question is whether the lithium boom will translate into better schools, hospitals, roads, and livelihoods. As history has shown, the country’s vast resource wealth has often benefitted elites and foreign companies more than its people.
In the words of one community leader in Manono: “We welcome investment, but it must come with respect for our land, our environment, and our future.”
As the clean energy revolution accelerates, Congo’s choices in managing its lithium deposits will not only shape its national destiny but also influence the pace of global decarbonization. The world may need Congo’s lithium, but Congo needs fair partnerships that truly empower its citizens.
