Rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have tightened control over the Rubaya coltan-mining region, generating an estimated $300,000 monthly from imposed production taxes, the United Nations Security Council was told on Monday.
The M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, took over the mineral-rich area, which produces essential components for smartphones and computers, following heavy fighting in April. Bintou Keita, head of the U.N. mission in Congo, stated that the region’s mineral trade accounts for more than 15% of the global supply of tantalum, a critical resource.
Congo, the world’s largest producer of tantalum, plays a crucial role in global supply chains for industries like electronics. However, Keita emphasized the detrimental impact of the rebels’ control, warning that the exploitation of the country’s resources is fueling armed groups, perpetuating violence, and harming local populations.
The mineral-rich eastern region of Congo has long been the battleground for various armed groups vying for control over valuable resources. The resurgence of M23 since March 2022 has escalated the conflict, resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of over a million people.
Keita urged the international community to impose sanctions on those benefiting from the illicit trade, stating that without decisive action, peace will remain out of reach, and civilians will continue to suffer.
