The Daily The Global Race to Mine the Metal of the Future
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Mar 18, 2022 Dionne Searcey, a New York Times correspondent, dives into the cobalt mining scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicenter of the global clean energy race. She highlights the stark contrasts between Kinshasa’s allure and the harsh realities miners face. Searcey explores the intense rivalry for cobalt between the U.S. and China, revealing the geopolitical implications of this resource struggle. Personal stories from local miners paint a vivid picture of their daily battles, underscoring the human cost behind the metal that powers our future.
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Cobalt Rush in Kinshasa
- Dionne Searcey arrived in Kinshasa and observed an opulent hotel lobby filled with people interested in cobalt.
- This experience underscored the significant cobalt rush happening in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Digging for Cobalt
- Searcey traveled to Congo's mining region and witnessed both industrial mines and individuals digging with shovels.
- The abundance of cobalt allows people to extract it with basic tools.
Freelance Cobalt Miners
- Searcey met freelance cobalt miners, like George Punga, who dig tunnels and sell the extracted cobalt.
- These miners pulverize the cobalt and sell it to traders, highlighting the informal market.