The United Nations Security Council heard a grim warning on Monday about the M23 rebel group’s consolidation of control over the Rubaya coltan-mining region in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has imposed a production tax that generates an estimated $300,000 in monthly revenue.
Bintou Keita, head of the UN mission in Congo, told the council that the Rubaya area accounts for over 15% of global tantalum supply, a critical mineral used in smartphones and computers.
This control by the M23 is fueling the group’s military strength and exacerbating the ongoing conflict in the region.
Keita expressed deep concern over the criminal laundering of Congo’s natural resources, which is strengthening armed groups and exploiting civilian populations.
She emphasized the need for international sanctions on those benefiting from this illicit trade to ensure peace and stability in the DRC.