Bezos- and Gates-Backed KoBold Metals Launches Massive Lithium Exploration Push in Congo

The company plans artificial intelligence-driven exploration across vast territory to secure lithium supply for Western markets.

Josh Goldman, President, KoBold Metals, speaks on stage during a presentation in the U.S.-Africa Business Forum Deal Room at Walter E. Washington Convention Centre in Washington on Dec. 14, 2022. Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for Prosper Africa

KoBold Metals, backed by billionaires Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, has started a massive lithium exploration campaign in Congo (DRC), seeking to bring the critical resource used in electric vehicles and other batteries to the United States, the company announced on April 13.

“This campaign is possible because of the courage and vision of the DRC government and the tireless work of the [U.S. State Department] to create the conditions for American companies to succeed in the DRC,” KoBold CEO Kurt House posted on X on April 13.