How the trade in cassiterite has fuelled conflict in eastern DRC
The DRC is a country of extraordinary natural wealth but this wealth has never been used for the benefit of the Congolese population. Instead, the country is currently emerging from one of the world’s worst conflicts, which has resulted in the deaths of up to 3.5 million people. This conflict has been fuelled by the (mainly) illicit trade in natural resources.
During the war, numerous rebel groups funded their occupation of eastern DRC through the exploitation of minerals, such as diamonds, coltan and cassiterite (tin ore). The problems with coltan have been well documented. In 2000 demand soared, the price soared and military groups in the DRC responded by funding themselves using coltan exploitation. The price of coltan fell in 2001 and demand for the mineral decreased.
Exactly the same thing is now happening with cassiterite (tin ore). A massive increase in demand for tin caused tin prices to rise dramatically in early 2004. Tin ore is now being used by military groups to fund themselves. It is found in the same areas as coltan, and is being traded by the same networks.
The report looks at the trade in cassiterite and conflict in eastern DRC.
Download the report: Under-mining peace
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