DR Congo's copper and cobalt mining hit by Iran conflict

The Democratic Republic of Congo's vital copper and cobalt mining sector is facing serious disruptions due to the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. 

One of Africa's biggest mineral exporters, DR Congo is the world's largest producer of cobalt, accounting for 70 percent of global output. 

Cobalt is essential in the manufacture of rechargeable batteries used in a wide range of applications including smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. 

However, due to the conflict in the Middle East, copper and cobalt producers say key shipments of industrial chemicals used in mineral processing have been cancelled or delayed because of disruptions to global shipping routes.

"The mining industry depends heavily on fuel and other chemical inputs required for cobalt processing, all of which are imported. Therefore, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is significantly impacting the mining industry," said mining expert Jean-Pierre Okenda. 

As a result, some mining firms have already scaled back operations due to rising transport and input costs.

Authorities say rerouted shipments through Tanzania's Dar es Salaam Port have nearly doubled since the conflict began. 

"Our local production in DR Congo and many other African countries relies on imported inputs such as chemicals and other supplies that power factories and industries. Consequently, when international market prices rise, it is reflected here at home," economic analyst Luc Alouma Mwakobila said.

The conflict's ripple effects have deprived the DR Congo of crucial revenue, further exacerbating the economic strain caused by unrest in the country's eastern region.

CGTN Reporter William Okeyo contributed to this report.