The deadliest war since World War II is taking place right now in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and rape is used as a weapon in this war. Though this is taking place halfway around the world, we are directly linked to the conflict. The violence in Congo is being fueled by a multi-million dollar trade in minerals - the 3 T's (tin, tantalum, and tungsten) - that make our cell phones and other electronics function.
Over five million people have died as a result of the war.
Hundreds of thousands of women have been raped.
Congo's mineral wealth should be a source of prosperity and stability for the Congolese people, not a source of exploitation and violence. As the primary end-users of the 3 T's, electronics companies bear a responsibility for cleaning up their supply chains. Our cell phones should not be fueling violent conflict. Electronics companies have an important role to play in being part of the bigger solution - ensuring that the Congolese people benefit from, rather than suffer because of, their natural resources.
We don't want you to give up your cell phone. We want you to use it to make a positive impact for Congo.
As consumers of cell phones and other electronics, we can change the equation for Congo. Demand that the biggest end-users of the 3 T's - consumer electronics companies - COME CLEAN 4 CONGO and pledge to make their products conflict-free.
Check out our resources to learn more:
From Mines to Mobile Phones
Watch this animated video to learn how Congo's conflict minerals make their way from rebel-controlled mines in eastern Congo to your cell phone.
The Life of a Congolese Miner
Watch this photo slideshow depicting what life is like in one of the largest mines in North Kivu.
Can You Hear Congo Now?
Cell Phones, Conflict Minerals, and the Worst Sexual Violence in the World. By John Prendergast.
A Comprehensive Approach to Congo's Conflict Minerals
By the Enough Project and the Grassroots Reconcilliation Group. This paper describes how a comprehensive approach must be taken to transform Congo's mineral resources from a key source of funding curse for armed groups into an engine of empowerment for Congolese civilians who have been victims to the conflict and are dependent upon the meager livelihoods they earn in the mines.
Congo Conflict Minerals: Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to some of the most common questions about Congo's conflict minerals.
LISTEN to an interview with RAISE Hope for Congo's Candice Knezevic on Mic Check Radio.
