Going beyond “Conflict-Free”: Transition Minerals Governance in DRC and Rwanda

Jul 31, 2024 | Neeraja Kulkarni
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Resource-rich nations such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda—which produce minerals ranging from coltan, cobalt, gold, tungsten, and tantalum, to tin (3TG)—hold tremendous importance in the global supply chains. The DRC produces 70% of global cobalt production, while its neighbor, Rwanda, generates around 30% of Tantalum.  

Yet as dominating as these numbers may be, mining these critical minerals is plagued with internal and cross-border conflicts, worsening conditions for local communities. Thus, the two countries face significant challenges to govern and satisfy this increasing global appetite for transition minerals. 

In critical mineral supply chains, “conflict-free” standards remain central to the peacekeeping efforts of upstream nations, however, integrating them with broader human security and development goals can lead to long-term sustainability. The energy transition must not worsen human conditions and freedoms today in the hope of securing a more sustainable tomorrow.