• Security
• Wednesday 15 July 2026 – 10:11

DRC calls for stronger UN action against Rwanda-backed armed groups exploiting critical minerals

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has taken a firm stance at the United Nations, warning that international inaction against Rwanda-backed armed groups is fueling instability and undermining regional security. During a high-level UN meeting on critical minerals for the global energy transition, the DRC delegation, led by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, highlighted how illicit mineral exploitation is directly financing conflict and weakening state authority.

Rubaya’s coltan mines: A case of regional destabilization

The minister pointed to Rubaya, one of the world’s most significant coltan mining hubs, where armed groups—particularly the M23, backed by Rwanda—have systematically looted mineral resources. According to UN experts, over 1,400 tons of coltan were smuggled into Rwanda in the first year after seizure by the M23, generating approximately $800,000 USD monthly for the rebel group. Despite documented evidence, Rwanda’s army remains unsanctioned by the UN, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of existing international mechanisms.

“The absence of sanctions against Rwanda’s armed forces, despite overwhelming proof, exposes a critical flaw in the global governance of natural resources. When exploitation fuels conflict, erodes sovereignty, and violates territorial integrity, it must be treated as a security threat—not merely an economic or developmental issue,” Wagner stated.

Linking mineral governance to peace and security

The DRC, currently holding the UN Security Council presidency, has advocated for a stronger link between mineral governance, conflict prevention, and peacebuilding. The delegation emphasized that sustainable energy transitions cannot succeed without addressing the root causes of instability in resource-rich nations.

“We must move beyond principles to measurable action. The global energy transition should not replace one form of dependence with another. True progress requires shared responsibility across the entire value chain—producers, traders, financiers, and consumers must all be held accountable,” Wagner added.

The DRC’s proposals include:

• Enhanced traceability systems to combat fraud and armed group financing without penalizing legitimate artisanal miners.
• Balanced partnerships that prioritize local value addition, infrastructure development, technology transfer, and market access for African nations.
• Stronger enforcement of UN sanctions against armed groups and their backers benefiting from illegal mineral trade.

Diplomatic efforts stall as conflict persists

While the DRC and Rwanda signed the Washington Agreement in 2022—aimed at de-escalation and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces—violence in the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces continues unabated. Rebel factions, including the M23, still control key cities like Goma and Bukavu, while diplomatic initiatives, such as the Doha Process, have yet to yield tangible results. The DRC’s repeated calls for international accountability highlight the widening gap between diplomatic commitments and ground realities.

Key takeaways:

• Critical minerals like coltan are central to the global energy transition but are increasingly funding armed groups.
• Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 has exacerbated insecurity, with mineral smuggling sustaining rebel operations.
• UN inaction on sanctions against Rwanda’s military risks normalizing impunity in the region.
• The DRC’s presidency of the UN Security Council offers a platform to push for stronger governance frameworks.

As the world accelerates its transition to clean energy, the DRC’s warnings serve as a stark reminder: without justice and accountability, mineral wealth will continue to fuel conflict rather than development.