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The United States has imposed sanctions on a major gold refinery in Rwanda and two of its executives, accusing them of smuggling minerals from areas controlled by rebels in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.
Washington stated that what it described as a “network” was cooperating with the M23 rebel group, which holds territories in DR Congo rich in gold and coltan—a metallic ore critical for electronics manufacturing.
Despite overwhelming evidence presented by United Nations experts, Rwanda has persistently denied backing the M23.
The Rwandan government has not responded to the latest US sanctions but has previously labelled similar measures against the country as unfair and biased.
The sanctions, announced on Thursday, target Gasabo Gold Refinery, its chairman Jean Malic Kalima, and managing director Bosco Kayobotsi.
In a statement, the US said at least 60 kilograms of gold, worth millions of dollars, were smuggled from eastern DR Congo to Gasabo Gold earlier in 2026.
The statement also accused Rwandan government officials and soldiers of overseeing the operation.
Last year, Gasabo Gold Refinery was already sanctioned by the European Union for “profiting from the armed conflict” in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Three mining companies controlled by Mr Kalima—Bugambira Mines, Wolfram Mining and Processing, and Rwinkwavu Mining Corporation—were also hit with US sanctions on Thursday.
All assets held by these entities under US jurisdiction will be frozen. The sanctions also prohibit American citizens and businesses from engaging with the designated parties.
“The United States will not allow rogue groups to profit from the illicit mineral trade and destabilise the region,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
“The mineral wealth of the Democratic Republic of Congo rightfully belongs to the Congolese people.”
This action builds on a US-brokered peace deal signed in December by the presidents of Rwanda and DR Congo.
The agreement aims to end the long-standing conflict in eastern DR Congo and establish a transparent mining sector in the region.
Experts believe the Trump administration also hopes the deal will boost American investment in the region’s minerals.
Fighting in eastern DR Congo continues despite the peace deal being signed.
On Wednesday, during a summit to assess the deal’s impact, officials from DR Congo, Rwanda, and the United States “expressed grave concern over the escalation of fighting,” according to a joint statement.
