By Patriot corps.
In a recent development, M23 rebels have seized control of Rubaya, a strategic coltan mining town in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The capture occurred amid allegations from the DRC government, implicating Rwanda in aiding the rebels to exploit the region’s mineral resources, an accusation Rwanda vehemently denies.
Rubaya, situated in Bahunde, Masisi Territory, North Kivu province, is renowned for its significant coltan reserves, essential for manufacturing batteries in electric cars and cellphones.
According to M23’s political leader, Bertrand Bisiimwa, the rebel faction’s objective in capturing Rubaya was not to claim ownership of the mining operations but rather to neutralize alleged training facilities for armed groups planning attacks against civilians.
Bisiimwa stated that M23 forces encountered heavy resistance from government troops during the seizure, asserting that their response was in self-defense. Moreover, he emphasized that the mining activities in Rubaya were not a target for the rebels, urging operators to continue their operations without interference.
However, these developments exacerbate existing tensions between the DRC and Rwanda. The DRC government has accused Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels to exploit the region’s mineral wealth, a claim denied by Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Kagame has emphasized Rwanda’s own substantial coltan deposits and dismissed allegations of involvement in destabilizing eastern DRC for mineral plunder.
The seizure of Rubaya follows recent allegations against tech giant Apple, accusing them of sourcing minerals illegally mined in the DRC, purportedly transported and laundered through Rwanda, thereby financing armed groups in the region.
As M23 rebels advance into other areas, including Mululu, Runigi, and Ngungu in Masisi territory, the situation underscores the complexities surrounding mineral exploitation, regional dynamics, and ongoing conflicts in the DRC.