In the electronic music scene, reliance on tech products is imperative. Decks, phones, tablets, the list could go on and on, these are all vital components for DJs, producers and consumers in the industry. However, something brutal and inhumane is happening daily in the background of your latest technological marvel, and it’s time to shed light on it.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is a huge producer of important elements needed to make your newest tech tick. Coltan, tantalum and cobalt are just a few of the minerals that are crucial towards the production of your latest laptops or cars, but how are they being sourced?
There is a silent genocide taking place which is being spearheaded by some companies that we are heavily supporting without even realising. These minerals are used by household brands such as Tesla, Apple, Samsung and Ford and are mined in a horrific way with evidence of child labour and long-term pollutants to the environment (see here for an example of more information)
DRC residents have been killed, raped and forced to flee their homes due to the aggressive exploitation of the mineral rich country. Hoping to make a difference by highlighting the brutality occurring in his country, is Congolese artist Kimyan Law’s latest release, Coltan, which drops 25 April.
“Currently, there’s a crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As a result of continuous aggressive exploitation of minerals and resources, the Congolese are forced to flee by the millions, becoming internally displaced. Most of this takes place because of the mining of Coltan, an element crucial to all technological devices.” Kimyan explains.
As documented by Al Jezeera in recent years, Rwandan terrorist group M23 are largely cited as one of the most aggressive forces in the process of sourcing and mining these minerals. Kimyan added “This Rwandan group are funded by these companies who have an interest in the exploitation of the country and it’s people, all to advance and maintain their own technological growth and production cycles.”
The message of the track is simple and comes in the form of spoken word, Kimyan describes the track by saying “Coltan’s only lyrics are a recital of a few natural raw materials being taken.” Which when put so meaningfully, will hopefully make listeners think twice before ordering their new phones.
According to U Switch, in the UK, statistics indicate that 38% of people update their smartphones every 2 years. With a further 30.8% of people changing it every 3 years. Waste Managed reported that the UK generates over 1.6 million tonnes of electronic waste each year.
How can we help? It’s simple, be more sustainable with your tech products and stop being so wasteful. Instead of upgrading your phone to the latest version, keep refurbishing the one you already own.
There are literally millions of people being tortured and dictated to make sure that you keep up with trends and take the best selfies. Coltan, out this week, serves as a simple but stark reminder of the modern world.
“Congo is bleeding, my heart is bleeding.” – Kimyan Law