Article

A mining site in Rubaya, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), collapsed, resulting in approximately 200 deaths and trapping hundreds. The region, controlled by the M23 rebel group, faces significant challenges for rescue operations due to limited access and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The DRC holds about 70% of the world's cobalt reserves, crucial for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and smartphones. While developed countries push for climate commitments, the extraction of these minerals often occurs under dangerous and exploitative conditions, exacerbated by armed groups profiting from artisanal mining. The DRC government announced an investigation, but accountability remains difficult in this lawless zone.