Coltan: the core of Hostilities Between the DRC and Rwanda [Asset Management]

The top two exporters of coltan in the world, which is essential to the electronics sector and a source of tension between the two nations, are the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. The DRC exported 1,918 tons of coltan in 2023, whereas Rwanda exported 2,070 tons, according to Ecofin Agency.

Despite its enormous reserves, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in bitter competition with its neighbor, Rwanda, since 2014. The ethical origins of Rwandan coltan are called into doubt by the continuation of smuggling and the lack of traceability, underscoring issues with transnational accountability and the control of natural resources. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has admitted that his nation acts as a hub for resource theft, even though his government disputes claims that it is stealing from the Congo.

International financial expert Junior Mbuyi believes that Rwanda’s recent increase in coltan exports is because the country is illegally utilizing coltan from the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with the tacit support of some international powers. This highlights the urgent need to improve transparency and combat smuggling.

He appeals for the international community to become aware of the need to stop this collaboration. Additionally, Mbuyi thinks that economic solutions are the only way for Rwanda and the DRC to resolve their differences.