Pope Leo XIV on Sunday expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the victims of a devastating landslide at a coltan mining site in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where at least 200 people are feared dead.
Deadly collapse at Rubaya mines
The landslide struck the Rubaya mining area in North Kivu on Wednesday, collapsing several artisanal mines. The death toll was confirmed by the provincial governor appointed by the M23, which currently controls the region. Local authorities said the toll could rise further as rescue efforts continue.
Following the disaster, leaders appointed by the M23 temporarily halted artisanal mining operations near Rubaya, located about 50 kilometres from Goma.
Pope’s message of compassion
Speaking during the Angelus prayer at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV said, “I assure my prayers for the many victims of the landslide in a mine in North Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. May the Lord sustain that people who suffer so much.”
His remarks came amid growing international concern over unsafe mining conditions and prolonged conflict in eastern Congo.
Government blames illegal exploitation
The Congolese government expressed solidarity with the victims and their families but accused the M23 rebels of illegally and dangerously exploiting the region’s mineral wealth. Eastern Congo has long been plagued by conflict driven by control over valuable resources.
The Rubaya mines are a critical source of coltan, a metallic ore essential for manufacturing smartphones, computers, and aircraft engines. DR Congo produced nearly 40 per cent of the world’s coltan supply in 2023.
Former miners told international media that the mines consist of deep pits with hand-dug tunnels that are poorly maintained, making collapses frequent and often fatal.
Prayers for other disaster-hit regions
During the same Angelus address, Pope Leo XIV also prayed for victims of recent storms and floods in Mozambique, Portugal, and southern Italy, where extreme weather has caused widespread loss of life and displacement.