On February 9, 2026, a coalition of Congolese civil society groups known as 'Le Congo n’est pas à vendre' issued an open letter to U.S. authorities expressing deep concerns over a consortium of American companies, Orion CMC, seeking to acquire 40% of the mining assets in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from Swiss mining giant Glencore. The coalition emphasizes that these deals carry significant risks of corruption and call for scrutiny from U.S. entities involved. The acquisition is supported by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), which raises alarms about the implications for local governance and resource management.

The open letter highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption in the DRC's mining sector, which has been marred by allegations of illegal dealings and a lack of transparency. Civil society organizations stress that the involvement of U.S. companies and governmental institutions in such high-risk operations could exacerbate systemic corruption rather than promote development. This situation places the spotlight on the ethics of international business and the responsibility of foreign investors in resource-rich countries.

The coalition's plea underscores the necessity for responsible investment practices that prioritize the welfare of local communities and environmental protections. By alerting U.S. authorities, the groups aim to stir action that deters corrupt practices and fosters a transparent mining industry in the DRC, ultimately advocating for the country's sovereignty over its natural resources.