The United States finds itself in a new geopolitical contest with China—not over ideology, but for access to critical minerals. These resources are essential to modern technology and the transition to a low-carbon future. With 30% of the world’s critical mineral reserves, Africa is at the heart of this struggle. Yet, while China has aggressively expanded its influence through diplomacy and investment, the U.S. has lagged behind.

As global demand for minerals like cobalt, lithium, and graphite intensifies, the U.S. must reassess its foreign policy toward Africa. America cannot afford to fall further behind in this strategic competition. To secure its supply chains and protect its national security, the U.S. must treat African nations as equal partners, fostering relationships built on mutual benefit rather than short-term gains.

Since the early 2000s, China has strengthened its foothold in Africa through extensive loans, infrastructure projects, and diplomatic efforts. Its Belt and Road Initiative has positioned China as the dominant foreign player on the continent, securing access to the critical minerals it needs for economic growth. Today, China controls 90% of the world’s mineral refining capacity, giving it outsized power in global markets.

This dominance is no accident. China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the 1960s when it supported African liberation movements during decolonization. Today, many African nations owe debts to Chinese lenders, and China’s influence spans sectors from energy to mining, information technology, and defense. This long-standing relationship has given China a significant edge over the U.S. in gaining access to Africa’s critical resources.

The U.S. needs a more proactive, strategic approach to Africa—one that acknowledges the continent’s pivotal role in global supply chains. Rather than viewing Africa as merely a source of raw materials, the U.S. should engage African nations as equal partners. Only by fostering partnerships that align with Africa’s economic development goals can the U.S. build mutually beneficial relationships that advance both African interests and U.S. foreign policy objectives.

In 2022, the United States signed formal agreements with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Zambia, which are a step in the right direction. By supporting the development of electric vehicle battery supply chains, the agreements provide a blueprint for future engagement. But much more is needed.

First, the U.S. and its Western allies must include African nations in global mineral initiatives. The Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), which aims to diversify supply chains, involves Western countries, India, Japan, South Korea, and the EU—but excludes African nations. Given Africa’s vast mineral reserves, this is a glaring oversight that must be corrected.

Second, U.S. policy should support African countries in developing their own mineral processing capacity. Several nations, including Namibia, Ghana, and Zimbabwe, have banned the export of unprocessed minerals, opting instead to build domestic industries and processing capabilities. The U.S. can play a critical role here by offering technical assistance and investment to help these countries move up the value chain.

Finally, the U.S. must prioritize strategic outreach to key African nations, employing commercial diplomacy to engage decision-makers. Countries like the DRC, Guinea, and Mozambique are not only rich in critical minerals but also hold strategic importance for U.S. interests in the region.

The U.S. cannot afford to be a bystander in the global race for critical minerals. Securing access to these resources is not just an economic priority—it’s a matter of national security. Whether under a second Trump administration or a Harris-led one, American foreign policy must focus on strengthening ties with African nations. The U.S. can safeguard its supply chains and remain competitive by offering a compelling alternative to China’s exploitative tactics and investing in sustainable, long-term relationships. The time to act is now.