French ex-soldiers are reportedly heading back to Africa as part of a private security team organized by U.S. billionaire Eric Prince, aimed at safeguarding mining operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to africa.businessinsider, the recruitment of French ex-soldiers is linked to a security contract with U.S. billionaire Erik Prince’s firm, indicating a growing trend of private military contractors securing high-risk, resource-rich areas across Africa.
According to a report by Africa Intelligence, a ‘mysterious’ recruiter has been reaching out to former French servicemen, particularly from the elite French Foreign Legion, to offer them a role in the DRC.
The move follows recent peace talks between the DRC and Rwanda, which were part of broader efforts initiated by the United States to address the ongoing regional conflict.
Details of the security deal
Erik Prince, founder of the infamous private military company Blackwater, has a contentious history in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where his firm has been involved in securing mining logistics since 2015.
According to The Africa Report, Prince initiated talks with the DRC government in early January regarding mineral security, prior to the M23 rebels’ major offensive that led to the capture of Goma and Bukavu.
In April 2025, an agreement was reached to help secure and tax the country’s vast mineral wealth, particularly in the copper-rich Katanga province.
The deal aims to boost state revenue from mining, which is plagued by smuggling and corruption.
The use of ex-French soldiers
Erik Prince’s preference for hiring ex-French soldiers likely stems from their deep experience in high-risk environments, especially in African conflict zones.
With their extensive knowledge of Africa’s political and security dynamics, these soldiers bring valuable skills to stabilize volatile regions.
However, this reliance on French military personnel faces rejection in many African countries, particularly in French-speaking nations, where such interventions are often seen as neocolonial or undermining local sovereignty.
This growing pushback is reflected in the increasing replacement of French forces by Russian military presence.
The shift is particularly evident in countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and others led by military juntas.
In recent years, these nations have expelled French forces, signaling a significant reorientation of alliances and a rejection of France’s historical influence.
