Over 200 killed in Coltan mine collapse in Congo

In Congo, the death toll from a mine collapse has risen to at least 227 people. The coltan mine in Rubaya, Congo, collapsed last Wednesday, burying a large number of miners, including women and children. The collapse took place at an artisanal mine near the town of Rubaya, an area known for its rich deposits of coltan, a metallic ore used in the production of smartphones and other electronic devices. Coltan, or columbite-tantalite, is the main source of tantalum, a rare metal used in the production of advanced electronic devices. Coltan is used in mobile phones, computers, the aviation industry and other important electronic devices, is largely sourced from Congo’s Rubaya mines, which produce about 15% of the world’s supply.Locals at the site reportedly dig manually for a few dollars per day.
Mining accidents are common in eastern Congo, where safety standards are often minimal and artisanal miners work in unstable pits without protective equipment. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, saw the ground give way while victims were in the mine. Approximately 20 injured people are currently receiving treatment in health facilities.
Since 2024, the mine has been under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel group. The United Nations has stated that AFC/M23 has plundered Rubaya's riches to help fund its insurgency, an operation it alleges is backed by the government of neighboring Rwanda, an accusation Kigali denies.Despite the Congo’s exceptional mineral wealth, more than 70 percent of Congolese live on less than $2.15 a day.