DR Congo: More than 200 killed in mine collapse - BBC

More than 200 people were killed in a collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this week, according to officials. Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, a spokesperson for the rebel-appointed governor of North Kivu province, confirmed the death toll on Sunday. The incident occurred during a massive landslide at the mine, which is significant for producing a substantial portion of the world's coltan supply. The Rubaya mine is responsible for approximately 15% to 30% of the global coltan supply, a mineral that is processed into tantalum, a heat-resistant metal used in mobile phones, computers, aerospace components, and gas turbines. The Rubaya mine has been under the control of the M23 rebel group since May 2024. Local miners typically work manually at the site, earning only a few dollars a day. The collapse highlights the dangers associated with artisanal mining in the region, where safety measures are often inadequate. The tragedy has drawn attention to ongoing issues surrounding mining practices and the impact of armed groups on local communities in the DRC. The local governor emphasized the scale of the disaster, raising concerns regarding the safety and regulation of mining operations in the area. The involvement of armed groups like the M23 underscores the precarious nature of mining in conflict-affected regions and the risks faced by artisanal miners. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for improved safety standards and oversight in the mining sector.