Villagers in Tshabula Searching for Cobalt
The images from Tshabula depict a troubling reality about cobalt mining, a vital component in today’s technology-driven world.
Located near Kolwezi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a significant cobalt reserve, these visuals highlight the escalating demand for this mineral. Cobalt’s high stability and energy density render it essential for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and superalloys. This demand has prompted corporations to establish extensive extraction operations in the region, displacing local communities.
The featured image captures villagers in Tshabula, approximately 10 kilometers from Kolwezi’s center, sifting through waste deposited from one of the area’s largest open-cast mines. Managed by the state alongside a private firm, plans for expansion threaten to obliterate nearby housing.
Beyond the official mines, numerous unauthorized operations have emerged. These ventures involve significant risks, as miners dig deep tunnels for cobalt. While government initiatives aim to regulate this sector and enhance working conditions, the estimated 150,000 “artisanal” miners in the Kolwezi area face meager compensation for their labor.
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