BREAKING: Congo’s Rubaya coltan mine suddenly collapsed – more than 227 people were buried under the debris and died. The mineral that powers mobile computers became the cause of death. Rain, rebel control and illegal digging… is this the real cost of modern technology?
Congo Coltan Mine Collapse: A mine collapsed in Congo, which shook the whole world. More than 227 people died in a landslide at a coltan mine in the Rubaya region of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This is the same mine from where about 15% of the world’s coltan is extracted. This coltan later becomes tantalum, which is used in making mobile phones, computers, aerospace parts and gas turbines. Is the price of our mobile phone someone else’s life?
Rubaya Coltan Mine Accident: Why did the ground suddenly sink?
According to local officials, this accident happened on Wednesday. Hundreds of people were present in the mine at that time. The rainy season was going on, due to which the ground was already weak. People were digging in the pits with their hands, when suddenly the ground caved in and everything turned into debris. Along with the miners, children and women working in the market were also killed in this accident. Many people were buried alive. Some were taken out in time, but their condition is said to be critical.
Coltan Mining in Congo: Why do people risk their lives to work?
Most of the people working in the Rubaya mine are extremely poor. They dig every day, risking their lives just to earn a few dollars. Almost nothing is done in the name of security. No machines, no helmets, no proper structures. This compulsion takes them to the brink of death.
M23 Rebels Control: Why is the mine in the hands of rebels?
The area has been under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel group since 2024. The United Nations alleges that these rebels finance their weapons and fighting expenses with the money received from the mine. It is said that they also get support from the neighboring country Rwanda, although the Rwandan government denies this.
Global Tantalum Demand: What impact will it have on the world?
Coltan obtained from Rubaya mine is very important for the tech industry of the whole world. In such a situation, after this accident, the supply of tantalum may be affected, which can also have a direct impact on the prices of mobile and technology.