At least 12 people have been confirmed dead following the collapse of an artisanal coltan mine in North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, authorities reported on Friday.
The mine, located near the town of Rubaya, caved in on Thursday, though the cause of the collapse remains unclear.
According to a mining source and a local civil society representative, dozens of other miners narrowly escaped the site during the incident. Rescue efforts were ongoing, but the unstable conditions have made operations difficult.
The Rubaya region is known for its rich deposits of coltan, a metallic ore essential for the production of smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices. Small-scale, artisanal mines in the area account for roughly one-sixth of global coltan supply, making it a critical hub in the international tech supply chain.
Since mid-2024, the area has been under the control of M23 rebels, who have imposed a 15% tax on coltan production, according to rebel officials. The rebel occupation and ongoing instability in the region have raised concerns over the safety of mining operations and the exploitation of local workers.
Mine collapses are a frequent hazard in Congo’s informal mining sector. Advocacy groups have long called for improved worker protections and greater accountability in the mineral supply chain, particularly in conflict-affected regions like North Kivu.
Melissa Enoch
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