A deadly landslide at the Rubaya coltan mine in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo claimed more than 200 lives this week. Tragically, the victims included miners, children, and women who were at the site.
According to Lubumba Kambere Muyisa, spokesperson for the rebel-appointed provincial governor, the number of casualties may rise in the coming hours. He added, “Several people were pulled out just in time, but they sustained serious injuries.” Local health centers are currently treating around 20 of the wounded.
The landslide followed heavy rainfall, which made the ground unstable. “We are in the rainy season. The ground is fragile. It gave way while the victims were in the hole,” Muyisa explained. Authorities warned that more rescue operations are ongoing, but recovery is slow due to unstable terrain.
Rubaya mine vital to global electronics
Rubaya produces roughly 15% of the world’s coltan. Coltan is processed into tantalum, a heat-resistant metal essential for mobile phones, computers, aerospace parts, and gas turbines.
Miners at Rubaya work manually for a few dollars per day. The site has been under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel group since 2024. The group captured more mineral-rich territory in eastern Congo last year. They claim their goal is to protect the Congolese Tutsi minority and challenge the government in Kinshasa.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has accused AFC/M23 of exploiting Rubaya’s mineral wealth to fund its insurgency. Kigali, Rwanda’s government, denies supporting the rebels. Analysts warn that the region’s mineral wealth and political instability make mining extremely dangerous for locals.
Rescue efforts continue amid ongoing risks
Authorities confirmed at least 227 deaths so far. Rescue teams face challenges from landslides, heavy rains, and fragile ground. Villagers report that many miners enter deep pits, putting themselves at extreme risk during the rainy season.
Humanitarian organizations are calling for immediate support for the survivors. They emphasize the need for medical care, food, and temporary shelter. In addition, officials stress better safety measures at mining sites to prevent future disasters.
Experts warn that the Rubaya mine tragedy highlights the deadly consequences of unregulated mining and rebel control. As a result, local communities bear the highest cost. Moreover, despite these dangers, global technology companies continue to source coltan from the region, even though they know the risks.
The community mourns its dead as authorities promise to strengthen safety measures. However, risks remain high with ongoing rains and rebel control.
