The article discusses the significance of tantalum, a metal essential for electronics, and its links to ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Nearly 40% of the global supply of tantalum comes from the DRC, particularly from areas controlled by the M23 Rebellion Group, which has been advancing in eastern Congo and monopolizing mining operations. Despite a complex network of mining activities performed under hazardous conditions, M23 exploits these resources to finance their rebellion, reportedly earning around $800,000 a month from taxes on the mineral.
Tantalum mined in DRC is suspected to flow into global supply chains, raising concerns about its origins and the potential use of funds for violence, despite existing regulations aimed at preventing the trade of “conflict minerals.” The Innovative Tin Supply Chain Initiative (ITSCI), intended to trace mineral sources, faces criticism for lack of effective monitoring and issues of corruption. As M23 gains control, minerals continue to be exported, primarily through Rwanda, clouding the issue of accountability in the supply chain linked to smartphone production. The DRC government has accused companies of sourcing conflict minerals, highlighting the ongoing struggles in the region driven by both local and international interests.
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