Apple Denies Using Conflict Minerals from DRC, Says It Stopped Sourcing Them

Apple Denies Using Conflict Minerals from DRC, Says It Stopped Sourcing Them

Apple has responded to accusations from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that it uses conflict minerals in its products. The tech giant claims it told its suppliers earlier this year to halt purchases of tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold from both the DRC and Rwanda, areas affected by ongoing violence and conflict. This statement follows legal action taken by the Congolese government in France and Belgium.

The DRC government has accused Apple of using what it calls “blood minerals” from these regions, suggesting that the minerals were laundered through international supply chains. They have filed criminal cases against the company, alleging war crimes, laundering, forgery, and deception. These allegations stem from the mineral-rich eastern DRC, where rebel groups and the Congolese army have been engaged in violent conflict since the 1990s. Human rights groups and UN experts report that some artisanal mines in the region are controlled by these militant groups, who have been linked to serious human rights abuses, including massacres and sexual violence.

In its response, Apple did not provide specific details but confirmed it had taken action to stop sourcing minerals from the DRC and Rwanda. While lawyers representing the DRC have acknowledged Apple’s move, they have also stated that the legal action will continue in Europe. They emphasized that Apple’s claims about its supply chain changes need to be verified on the ground.

This ongoing legal dispute highlights the complex issue of sourcing minerals from conflict zones and the role multinational companies play in these global supply chains.

Source: Africa News