Rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have taken full control of the Rubaya coltan-mining region.
The United Nations Security Council reported that they are imposing a production tax expected to generate approximately $300,000 in monthly revenue.
The M23 movement, a Tutsi-led group allegedly backed by Rwanda, seized the area after intense fighting in April.
This region produces minerals essential for smartphones and computers, making it a strategic economic zone.
Bintou Keita, head of the U.N. mission in Congo, informed the Security Council that trade from Rubaya contributes to over 15% of global tantalum supply.
Tantalum is a critical mineral recognized by both the United States and the European Union.
Keita expressed concern over the situation, stating, “This generates an estimated $300,000 in revenue per month to the armed group.”
She emphasized the need to halt this criminal activity.
The eastern Congo is rich in mineral resources but plagued by conflict among various armed factions.
The resurgence of the M23 rebellion has led to thousands of deaths and over one million people displaced since March 2022.
Keita warned that unless international sanctions are imposed, civilians will continue to suffer amidst ongoing violence.
