Over 200 Dead in Congo Coltan Mine Collapse; Children, Women Among Victims

• At least 227 people died this week after a collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Victims include miners, children, and market women, with some rescued individuals suffering serious injuries.
• The landslide occurred during the rainy season, making the ground fragile and leading to the collapse while victims were in the mine.
• Rubaya mine, which accounts for about 15% of global coltan output, is controlled by the AFC/M23 rebel group since 2024.
• Coltan is refined into tantalum, a heat-resistant metal used in mobile phones, computers, aerospace parts, and gas turbines.

Why It Matters: A coltan mine collapse in eastern Congo killed over 200, highlighting dangers in rebel-controlled mining areas.