The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is considering legal action against technology companies such as Apple in a bid to reduce money laundering from its eastern provinces.
Eastern Congo is the world’s largest producer of tantalum, a metal used in devices such as the iPhone. More than 100 militias have sought to control the tantalum industry.
In 2024, the rebel group M23 controls the largest tantalum mine, Rubaya. Congolese, American and UN experts say Rwanda has sent thousands of troops to Congo to support M23, a charge Rwanda denies.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is investigating legal action and calling for Rwandan leaders to be punished for their role in the conflict. The United States and the European Union have imposed sanctions on Rwandan and Congolese leaders and members of the M23 movement for their involvement in terrorism.
- Advertisement -
In April, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) raised concerns about Apple, saying the company’s products could be adulterated with conflicting foods.
Apple has been dealing with these allegations for years. In 2016, the company said it began auditing its suppliers to ensure they were complying with food laws linked to terror attacks.
The investigation has now been expanded to include other companies, although they are not registered, according to Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner.
Eastern Congo’s rich mineral resources have been a source of conflict for nearly three years since the conflict following the Rwandan genocide spilled over the border. The region is the world’s largest producer of tantalum, a key ingredient in portable electronics.
Apple cut ties with 18 suppliers deemed to be supplying conflicting products in 2020. It then cancelled 12 more projects in 2022.
- Advertisement -
In September, protesters in more than a dozen cities in the United States and other countries used ads from the iPhone 16 to call for a boycott of Apple products. The protesters accuse Apple of turning a blind eye to the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the ongoing violence between Gaza and Israel.
