Rwanda and M23 Rebels Intensify Illicit Mineral Exploitation in Rubaya
Rwanda and the M23 rebels are escalating their exploitation of 3T minerals (tin, tungsten, and tantalum), in Rubaya, a mining town in North Kivu province, These ores are purchased from artisanal miners, stored in the large Mushake deposits, and then transported to Rwanda.
On May 8, 2024, Antoinette N’Samba, the Minister of Mines of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), issued a press release appealing to the United Nations and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) to address the illicit exploitation of minerals in Rubaya by Rwanda and M23 rebels.
The town is currently controlled by the Rwandan army and M23, who have imposed a single tax of $3,000 per ton of coltan and $2,000 per ton of cassiterite on artisanal miners and traders. These fees must be paid to deliver mining products to Kigali.
According to the DRC Ministry of Mines, Rwanda has adopted a diversion strategy, suspending exports of DRC-produced mining products to avoid inflating its export statistics. The ores are stored for future export instead.
Minister N’Samba is calling on the United Nations and ICGLR for “an unequivocal affirmation of the commitment of all stakeholders, including the end consumers of mining products, for a healthy and responsible supply of mineral substances.” She is also advocating for an embargo against Rwanda to curb the illegal exploitation of DRC’s mineral resources.
READ ALSO:DRC CONDEMNS RWANDA AND M23 FOR IMPOSING NEW TAXES ON RUBAYA MINES
