Stories from DR Congo

Hundreds of people have died in at least four landslides at the Rubaya mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo since the start of 2026. The Rubaya mines are a major global source of coltan.

The US State Department condemned a drone attack on Mouchaki in North Kivu and massacres near Ouvirat in South Kivu. Washington did not provide further details or assign responsibility, but called on all parties to exercise restraint and engage in the implementation of the CC.

Talks are underway in Switzerland between Kinshasa, representing the Democratic Republic of Congo government, and the FCM 23 rebels. The State of Qatar is mediating these discussions.

Armed men affiliated with the Codéco militia killed at least 70 people, predominantly civilians, in the gold-rich Ituri province of northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo at the end of April. The province, which borders Uganda, has been experiencing conflict for several years.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo held a three-hour press conference on May 6th in Kinshasa. During the conference, he did not exclude the possibility of a third term, which is seen as a political turning point. Congolese President Félix Tsisekedi, in power since 2019, stated on Wednesday in Kinshasa that he is ready for a third term if the Congolese people ask him, with a nuance regarding 'all change.' He also noted that elections might not be organized in 2028, but clarified it would not be due to his refusal, as resources are available. Tsisekedi added that elections would not be organized without the North and South Kimou. Discussions continue regarding the Congolese president's mandate, with inquiries made about potential changes to his term.

Three individuals have withdrawn from the Democratic Republic of Congo elections this week. The withdrawals are specifically related to 'Soka, Fekofa,' which refers to football and the Fekofa federation.

President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has mentioned the possibility of postponing upcoming elections. He stated that if the war in eastern Congo does not end, he does not believe the country can hold free and credible elections.

The Société Nationale d'Électricité (SNEL) in the Democratic Republic of Congo reportedly represents a portion of the country's GDP. RFI Afrique stated SNEL accounts for approximately 70% of the GDP, while RFI Monde reported a figure of about 60%.

The Vitendo virus is reportedly spreading in the Kalemi region. The source described the situation as very painful and called on the government to take action to prevent further spread.

KB Amani, a member of the Democratic Republic of Congo from the Uvira region, stated that the Kizwisi continue to be killed by the Congolese army.