The Global Story How the US, China and Russia are vying for influence in Africa
Jan 15, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Charles Gitonga, host of the BBC's Focus on Africa podcast, offers his insights on the geopolitical contest between the US, China, and Russia for influence in Africa. He highlights Central Africa's vast mineral wealth and the strategic importance of its youth demographic. Gitonga elaborates on the role of foreign powers, especially China's long-term investment strategies, as well as Russia's security-focused approach in the region. The conversation also addresses the implications of these influences on African nations' futures.
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DRC's Minerals Drive Global Competition
- The DRC's eastern region holds vast critical minerals like cobalt, lithium and coltan crucial for future technologies.
- Control over these resources drives local conflict and global strategic competition among powers.
Washington Deal, Little Immediate Change
- Charles recounts the U.S.-brokered Washington meeting where presidents of Rwanda and DRC signed a peace deal but showed no visible reconciliation.
- Days later the M23 rebel group captured towns, undermining the perceived success of that deal.
China's Deep Footprint In DRC Mining
- China already dominates mining operations in DRC with many established contracts and firms extracting cobalt and other minerals.
- U.S. ambitions face entrenched Chinese presence and existing commercial networks in the DRC.