Child Labor in Kolwezi, Lualaba (2024)

A child labor case from 2024 in Kolwezi, Lualaba, DR Congo. 1 source on file.

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What happened

Children in Lualaba are engaged in hazardous artisanal mining, including work connected to the cobalt supply chain. Children perform dangerous tasks such as digging, carrying heavy loads, sifting, sorting, transporting and washing cobalt ore. In June 2024, UNICEF estimated that approximately 361,000 children were engaged in hazardous work at artisanal mining sites across Lualaba and Haut-Katanga. Accused: Processing site operators and mineral traders.

Response and intervention

International investigative journalism. Increased scrutiny from downstream electronics companies. Not For Sale cobalt investigation team.

Sources

Not For Sale (opens in a new tab)

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