This analysis suggests that war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is due to fighting over gold, diamonds, and minerals. The analysis does not offer any solutions nor talk about alternative explanations for the conflict.
Context of the story:
Why is this important? The DRC is the third largest country in Africa, resource rich but economically poor, and home to violence and warlords.
Who is involved? The president of the DRC is Joseph Kabila. Laurent Nkunda is a former general who has taken control of large parts of eastern DRC–near Rwanda. Many people believe that Hutu militants from the Rwandan genocide are also operating in DRC, but not for Nkunda who is sympathetic to the Tutsis. The United Nations has a mission in DRC.
Where is this happening? DRC is in central Africa. The civil war is happening mostly in eastern DRC, especially near Rwanda.
What can you do? Learn about and use non-violent ways to resolve conflict in your life. Write to your political leaders and ask them to get involved in the problems of central Africa. Support cultural exchanges–understanding of other cultures can reduce violence.
