Rebels Control Coltan Mine in Eastern Congo

Rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly the M23 movement, have seized control of the Rubaya coltan-mining region, generating approximately $300,000 monthly from production taxes. This area is critical as it accounts for over 15% of global tantalum supply, a mineral essential for electronics, making Congo the leading global producer. Bintou Keita, head of the UN mission in Congo, highlighted the dire implications of this situation, stating that the criminal laundering of the country’s natural resources is empowering armed groups, contributing to civilian exploitation, and undermining peace efforts. Since the M23 rebellion reignited in March 2022, the conflict in the region has intensified, leading to thousands of deaths and over a million displacements. Keita urged for international sanctions against those profiting from this illicit trade to prevent further suffering of civilians. Manufacturers are under scrutiny to avoid sourcing minerals from conflict zones like eastern Congo.