In this episode, we discuss the ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a nation rich in natural resources but plagued by war and exploitation. From diamonds and gold to coltan and cobalt, Congo’s vast wealth has become a curse, fueling battles between armed groups, corrupt officials, and international corporations. But the human cost is staggering, as civilians, particularly women and children, bear the brunt of the violence.

We explore how the pursuit of valuable minerals has led to widespread sexual violence, with rape and assault used as tools of war to displace communities and assert control over resource-rich territories. Join us as we unpack the complex relationship between natural resources, armed conflict, and the ongoing fight for justice and peace in Congo.

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Donate Today:

City of Joy - https://cityofjoycongo.org/

Focus Congo - https://www.focuscongo.com/

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Sources:

“In My Village” Spoken Word by Ntumba Yvette. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xlo68g9-IK4

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Cascais, A. (2021, November 11). Renewed fighting flares in eastern Congo. https://www.dw.com/en/renewed-fighting-flares-in-eastern-congo/a-59789397

Cordell, D. & Payanzo, N. (2024, October 21). Resources and Power. https://www.britannica.com/place/Democratic-Republic-of-the-Congo/Resources-and-power

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Why sexual violence is on the rise in Goma's displacement camps. (2023, September 18). Why sexual violence is on the rise in Goma’s displacement camps - Democratic Republic of the Congo | ReliefWeb