The artisanal mining site of Rubaya in the DRC has become a focal point in an ongoing conflict involving various armed groups, particularly the M23 rebels. Despite the global demand for coltan, essential for electronics and defense, local miners remain impoverished, with many surviving on less than $2.15 a day. While the U.S. engages in peace negotiations, the situation for miners remains dire, as they labor under precarious conditions, caught in a cycle of violence and economic hardship for decades, exacerbated by the instability in eastern DRC.
"Despite the wealth of minerals in the DRC, over 70% of the population lives below the poverty line, earning less than $2.15 daily."
"Rubaya's mines have changed hands repeatedly between government and rebel forces, highlighting the ongoing instability and violence affecting local miners."
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