At least 200 people have died in a catastrophic mine collapse at the Rubaya coltan site in North Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The incident was confirmed on Friday by Lumumba Kambere Muisa, spokesperson for the province’s governor, according to Reuters.
Rubaya produces approximately 15 percent of the world’s coltan, a mineral processed into tantalum, a heat-resistant metal widely used in mobile phones, computers, aerospace components, and gas turbines. The mine is largely worked by local laborers who earn only a few dollars a day.
Muisa reported that the victims included miners, women, and children. While some people were rescued in time, many sustained serious injuries. Around 20 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at local health centers. The spokesperson noted that the collapse occurred because the rain-soaked, fragile soil gave way while victims were inside the mine pits.
A provincial adviser added that the death toll could be at least 227, though he requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media.
The United Nations has accused the AFC/M23 rebel group of looting Rubaya’s mineral resources to finance their operations, allegedly with support from neighboring Rwanda. Kigali has denied these claims. The mine has been under rebel control since 2024.
Source: Al Jazeera.