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Disaster strikes Rubaya mine
More than 200 people have died after a coltan mine collapsed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, rebel authorities confirmed. The tragedy occurred in Rubaya, North Kivu, on Wednesday when torrential rains caused the unstable site to cave in.
Victims include women and children
Among the dead were women, children, and artisanal miners-individuals not formally employed by mining companies. Approximately 20 survivors are currently receiving medical treatment in local hospitals.
A former mine supervisor told the BBC that the site had been poorly maintained, increasing the risk of accidents and complicating rescue operations. The fragile soil conditions further exacerbated the disaster.
Personal accounts of loss
A relative of one victim, who wished to remain anonymous, described the emotional toll of the collapse. "I didn't believe he could die in such circumstances," the source said, recalling his cousin as a "courageous" and "ambitious" man who supported his wife and two children.
"It was a big loss for the family and the community. I held onto hope until his body was found hours later."
Rebel-controlled territory
Rubaya, where the mine is located, is under the control of the M23 rebel group, which seized large parts of North Kivu. International observers allege that Rwanda backs the rebels, though Kigali has denied involvement.
Governor Erasto Bahati Musanga, appointed by the M23, visited survivors on Friday. The UN has previously accused the group of exploiting the mining sector through illegal taxation.
Global significance of Rubaya's coltan
The Rubaya mines hold approximately 15% of the world's coltan supply and half of the DR Congo's total deposits. Coltan, a metallic ore rich in tantalum, is critical for manufacturing capacitors in smartphones, computers, and other electronics.
In July 2025, a BBC team documented hazardous conditions at the site, where miners manually excavated the mineral amid dangerous, unregulated pits.
Government response pending
The BBC has reached out to the Congolese government in Kinshasa for comment but has not yet received a response.
