And Now, Blood Minerals
Don't be fooled by the rocks that the Democratic Republic of Congo's got, as valuable minerals like coltan and cassiterite have not enriched the poor country but instead have led to a mafia-like battle for control of extraction operations, prompting the Congo's president to indefinitely suspend mining.
Don’t be fooled by the rocks that the Democratic Republic of Congo’s got, as valuable minerals like coltan and cassiterite have not enriched the poor country but instead have led to a mafia-like battle for control of extraction operations, prompting the Congo’s president to indefinitely suspend mining.
Rebel groups have fought for control of the minerals, used in cell phone and computer production. The government says the proceeds from illegal mining prop up the rebel groups and perpetuate violence, bloodshed and ethnic conflict in the country’s eastern region. –JCL
Your support matters…The Guardian:
Mining in three provinces of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been banned on the orders of the President Joseph Kabila.
President Kabila ordered the indefinite suspension during a visit to the mining hub town of Walikale.
The president said he wanted to weed out what he called a “kind of mafia” involved in the mining industry.
Independent journalism is under threat and overshadowed by heavily funded mainstream media.
You can help level the playing field. Become a member.
Your tax-deductible contribution keeps us digging beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that unearths what's really happening- without compromise.
Give today to support our courageous, independent journalists.
Africa
The war-torn country faces the destruction of its health infrastructure, widespread displacement and hunger.
Courts & Law
Some say the ruling points to a disconnect between what it takes for survivors of sexual violence to be believed and what the legal system demands.
Books
In 'Knife,' his memoir on narrowly surviving a vicious attack, the acclaimed author interrogates a world where liberal principles have become old-fashioned.
Ear to the Ground
With summer on the way, advocates say access to cool air amidst stifling heat is a constitutional right.
Film
In “I Am Gitmo,” French director Philippe Diaz recreates the torture rooms inside the Guantanamo Bay Detention Center.
Editorial Cartoons
You need to be a supporter to comment.
There are currently no responses to this article.
Be the first to respond.