DRC: Refugees Blame Chronic Violence on Battle for Mineral Wealth

Jul 16, 2019 | Halima Athumani, Voice of America
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For decades, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo -- the Ituri and North Kivu provinces especially -- has endured ethnic violence leaving thousands dead and many more seeking refuge in neighboring countries. Even as the DRC's people struggle to survive, the country is considered one of the richest in the world in mineral wealth. Critics say few benefits are harnessed by the state for ordinary people, while mining companies and the elite become rich.