Tragedy Strikes Eastern DR Congo: 16 Killed In Coltan Mine Collapse
A tragic incident has unfolded in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where a pit collapse at the largest coltan mine has led to the heartbreaking loss of at least 16 lives. This unfortunate event took place at the Rubaya mine, located in North Kivu province, an area now under the control of the M23 militia, which has ties to Rwanda.
The disaster struck on Thursday morning, a time when around 131 miners were actively working at the site. The mine was alive with the hustle and bustle of miners extracting coltan, a highly sought-after mineral essential for making electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphones. Rescue efforts got underway immediately, resulting in the successful retrieval of 111 individuals from the debris. Sadly, 16 bodies were recovered, while four more miners are still unaccounted for.
The M23’s administrator for Masisi territory, where the mine is situated, corroborated the death toll to AFP. The Rubaya mine is an important source of coltan, contributing between 15% to 30% to the global supply, thereby cementing its significance in the electronics industry.
Since capturing the mine in April 2024, the M23 militia has been running it with a parallel administration. According to reports from United Nations experts, the group earns approximately $800,000 each month from the mine, largely due to a $7 tax imposed on each kilo of coltan produced and sold. However, this figure is just a small part of the M23's overall revenue generated through various levies on trades in the territories they control.
Furthermore, UN experts have claimed that Rwanda facilitates the militia's ability to exploit the mineral wealth of the DRC, an allegation that Rwanda has consistently denied, asserting that it does not provide military support to the M23.
The eastern DRC has endured over 30 years of conflict, with numerous armed groups and foreign interests competing for control over its abundant mineral resources. The M23’s recent advances have exacerbated tensions, prompting many international mining companies to pause their operations in the area.
The region boasts vast reserves of gold, tin, and coltan, making it a prime target for mining ventures. This mine collapse serves as a stark reminder of the dangers artisanal miners face, often working in unsafe conditions without necessary safety gear or adequate regulations.
The tragic event underscores an urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and regulations within the mining sector. As rescue operations continue, it’s crucial for the international community to recognize the ongoing struggles in the DRC and their impact on local communities.
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