US Backs Kenya Push to Process Critical Minerals Locally

Establishment-critical narrative

The Trump administration's talk of local processing doesn't change the pattern that has defined mineral deals across Africa for decades. Washington and Silicon Valley want cobalt, copper and rare earths to power their industries and supply chains, while pledges about jobs and value addition have often come with pressure to loosen labor, safety and environmental rules. Kenya should demand strong, enforceable terms that protect its own interests, not promises.