Inside the Congolese mine vital to mobile phones, as rebels give BBC rare access

The article discusses the Congolese mine that is vital for the production of mobile phones, and how it remains under the control of rebel forces despite the US government's efforts to secure the rights to the region's minerals. The mine, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), is a critical source of cobalt, a key component in lithium-ion batteries used in smartphones and other electronic devices. The article provides rare access to the mine, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by the local population and the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the control of these valuable resources. The article highlights the strategic importance of the DRC's mineral wealth and the ongoing power struggle between the government, multinational corporations, and rebel groups vying for control over these resources. It also touches on the human rights concerns and environmental impact associated with the mining operations in the region.