Alphamin resumes tin mining in east DRC as M23 rebels withdraw after U.S. intervention

Alphamin Resources has resumed operations at its Bisie tin mine in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following the withdrawal of M23 rebel forces and diplomatic intervention by the United States.

The Toronto-listed mining firm halted production in early March after rebel advances threatened the strategically important Walikale region in North Kivu. The Bisie mine, responsible for 6% of global tin supply, had been under heightened security concern until recent regional developments prompted a phased reopening. Massad Boulos, president Donald Trump’s in-law and senior adviser for Africa, confirmed during a press briefing in Kigali that the U.S. helped negotiate the rebels’ retreat. “We’ve seen the progress made in recent days and that’s excellent,” said Boulos, who has toured Central and East Africa in efforts to stabilize the mineral-rich zone.

Backed by U.S. and UK-based Denham Capital, Alphamin announced it will closely monitor the security situation during the resumption phase. The M23 group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, pulled back approximately 150 km from the mine following U.S.-led discussions with both DRC and Rwandan officials. The reopening sparked a 28% surge in Alphamin’s share price, while global tin prices dropped over 8%, falling below $30,000 per ton on the London Metal Exchange.

President Félix Tshisekedi is reportedly exploring a minerals-for-security deal with Washington, underlining U.S. interest in securing access to critical minerals amid escalating geopolitical competition. The Bisie mine — one of the largest in the world — produced 17,300 tons of tin in 2024, making it a cornerstone of global supply.