In a rare opportunity, the BBC was granted access to the Rubaya mine in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where M23 rebels control operations fundamental to the global mobile phone market. The mine employs more than 10,000 workers, all engaged in the demanding task of extracting coltan, a key mineral in electronics.
The scenes at the sprawling site are striking—miners exploit the rugged landscape, digging tirelessly in perilous conditions. "When we are deep in the mines, temperatures are very high - digging the mineral is also very hard," shared miner Peter Osiasi, who has been working there for five years. Despite the difficulties, he noted that mining has enabled him to save for a dowry and build a family.
Situated in the lush Masisi Hills of North Kivu, the Rubaya mine is a crucial site that holds 15% of the world's coltan supply. This interest has historically drawn various armed groups seeking control to profit from the region's resources. On a visit to the mine, post a recently signed ceasefire between DR Congo and Rwanda, conditions appeared relatively stable, with the M23 having implemented a safety regulation system.
However, the context of this peace is fraught with complexities. The M23, an ethnic Tutsi-led group, is unrecognized in the ceasefire discussions and continues to exert significant influence in eastern Congo. Allegations persist regarding Rwandan support for the M23, although authorities strongly refute these claims.
The prospects for regional stability hinge significantly on international interest, particularly from American firms looking to invest in the mining sector. The Congolese government hopes to leverage its mineral wealth to secure foreign aid and support. Rubaya's mining supervisor emphasized that while foreign investment is welcome, it must be directed toward improving local economic conditions and miner pay.
With infrastructure still lacking in mining regions, many workers remain skeptical about their future. "Business is going on very well here because we have at least some semblance of peace, but the pay is very low," Osiasi lamented. As the region grapples with a painful legacy of conflict, the path toward lasting peace and economic development remains uncertain.
The ongoing efforts involving direct talks and mediation might shape the area’s future, yet the residents of Rubaya are calling for definitive action to end the violence that has disrupted their lives for so long. As Osiasi poignantly noted, "I appeal to the owners of the mines to increase our pay because it's very little" while hoping for stable living conditions for their communities.
