lellep
Regular
Hello, I am home (sick) and have spent some time deep-diving into our investment.
Recent developments in the DRC-U.S. minerals negotiations suggest a potential catalyst for our Manono lithium project, particularly with reports of Erik Prince engaging with Congolese leadership. According to an article in Africa Intelligence (March 31, 2025), Prince, founder of Blackwater, has proposed deploying private military contractors to secure mining operations in the DRC, targeting threats like the M23 rebels in the east. This aligns with President Félix Tshisekedi’s minerals-for-security framework, currently under discussion with the Trump administration, and could significantly impact AVZ’s position.
Tshisekedi’s administration is under pressure. The failed coup attempt in May of 2024 and M23’s control over 40% of North Kivu, with key eastern territories including mineral-rich zones slipping from the government's grasp into the rebel's hands has left Tshisekedi desperate.
In response, Tshisekedi has deepened his ties with the U.S, evidenced by the release of the three American citizens involved in the coup to U.S. custody following talks with Trump’s Africa envoy, Massad Boulos. This move, alongside the cancellation of Kinshasa’s lobbying efforts in Washington, signals a strategic pivot to secure American support and Felix's own confidence in a deal being met.
Enter Erik Prince, his reported proposal is to provide security services potentially including armed personnel and logistical support, which could stabilize regions like Tanganyika Province, home to MANONO. With the U.S. eyeing critical minerals to counter China’s dominance (notably Zijin Mining’s stake in Manono’s northern section, Prince’s involvement could facilitate operational security for Western-backed projects. For AVZ, this might accelerate the reinstatement of our mining permit and enhance Manono’s appeal for a takeover.
I am happy to hear your views on this!
Recent developments in the DRC-U.S. minerals negotiations suggest a potential catalyst for our Manono lithium project, particularly with reports of Erik Prince engaging with Congolese leadership. According to an article in Africa Intelligence (March 31, 2025), Prince, founder of Blackwater, has proposed deploying private military contractors to secure mining operations in the DRC, targeting threats like the M23 rebels in the east. This aligns with President Félix Tshisekedi’s minerals-for-security framework, currently under discussion with the Trump administration, and could significantly impact AVZ’s position.
Tshisekedi’s administration is under pressure. The failed coup attempt in May of 2024 and M23’s control over 40% of North Kivu, with key eastern territories including mineral-rich zones slipping from the government's grasp into the rebel's hands has left Tshisekedi desperate.
In response, Tshisekedi has deepened his ties with the U.S, evidenced by the release of the three American citizens involved in the coup to U.S. custody following talks with Trump’s Africa envoy, Massad Boulos. This move, alongside the cancellation of Kinshasa’s lobbying efforts in Washington, signals a strategic pivot to secure American support and Felix's own confidence in a deal being met.
Enter Erik Prince, his reported proposal is to provide security services potentially including armed personnel and logistical support, which could stabilize regions like Tanganyika Province, home to MANONO. With the U.S. eyeing critical minerals to counter China’s dominance (notably Zijin Mining’s stake in Manono’s northern section, Prince’s involvement could facilitate operational security for Western-backed projects. For AVZ, this might accelerate the reinstatement of our mining permit and enhance Manono’s appeal for a takeover.
I am happy to hear your views on this!
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