Lecture Notes: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and its Resources

Introduction

• The DRC is rich in natural resources like gold, cobalt, and coltan.
• Despite this wealth, the country remains one of the poorest in the world.
• The ongoing conflict is one of the deadliest since World War II.
• Neighboring countries and international corporations exploit these resources.

Geopolitical Overview

• The DRC is the largest country in sub-Saharan Africa, bordered by nine countries.
• Population: Approximately 110 million, with 75% lacking basic needs.
• High child mortality rate: 1 in 12 children die before age 12.

Resources and Exploitation

• DRC has vast mineral reserves valued at about $24 trillion.
• Major resources include:
  • Gold: Used for jewelry and electronics.
  • Cobalt: Critical for electric car batteries; DRC holds over half of the world’s reserves.
  • Copper: Essential for solar panels.
  • Coltan: Crucial for smartphones; 60-80% of reserves are in the DRC.
• Mining industry dominated by foreign corporations, notably Chinese.
  • China controls 70% of copper and 50% of cobalt mining.
  • 2008 Sikamines Agreement with China promised infrastructure in exchange for resources, but investments largely unmet.

Historical Context and Political Instability

• King Leopold II of Belgium claimed the region in 1885, leading to mass exploitation and death.
• Post-independence in 1960, Patrice Lumumba became the first prime minister.
  • Lumumba was seen as a national hero but was assassinated with Western intervention.
• Mobutu Sese Seko ruled the country (renamed Zaire) for 32 years, known for his corruption.
• Current president, Felix Tshisekedi, has tried to tackle corruption but with limited success.

The Ongoing Conflict

• Over 120 militias operate in the eastern DRC, exacerbated by ethnic tensions and mineral wealth.
  • M23 and FDLR are among the key groups involved.
• The conflict stems partially from the aftermath of the 1994 Rwanda genocide.
  • Displaced Rwandans, including perpetrators, fled to the DRC.
  • Ethnic animosities fuel ongoing violence.
• Neighboring countries like Rwanda benefit from the turmoil, often involved in smuggling minerals.

International Involvement and Consequences

• International efforts, such as UN peacekeeping missions, have largely failed.
• Corruption is rampant, ranking 162 out of 180 in global corruption index.
• Smuggling routes move resources to international markets, affecting global supply chains.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

• A legitimate democratic government could improve conditions, but prospects remain bleak.
• The conflict is likely to continue, with external parties continuing to profit from the DRC’s riches.
• Effective governance and local involvement in resource management could offer hope for the future.