Trump’s in-law Boulos sent on mission to east Africa, with DRC’s minerals high on agenda

Massad Boulos, newly appointed senior advisor for Africa at the US State Department, is set to begin a diplomatic mission to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda.
The trip, which starts on 3 March, aims to foster peace in eastern DRC, where M23 rebels continue their offensive, and encourage increased U.S. private sector investment in the region. Boulos, a Lebanese-born American businessman and the father-in-law of Tiffany Trump, who will be accompanied by deputy assistant secretary of state for African affairs, Corina Sanders, will engage with heads of state and business leaders to advance the U.S. agenda for regional stability and economic cooperation. His visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in the DRC, where the conflict over mineral-rich territories has drawn international attention.
Boulos’ background in the business sector, especially his extensive experience in West Africa, is expected to facilitate discussions on potential partnerships in the region’s crucial mining sector. The U.S. has shown interest in the DRC’s vast mineral resources, including cobalt and lithium, which are critical to global energy and technological transitions. The Trump administration’s “America First” approach is focused on strengthening bilateral ties, especially as China’s influence in Africa grows. Boulos’ visit signals a renewed American focus on Africa, with particular attention on ensuring stability in the DRC amidst its ongoing security challenges.