The Modern-Day Martyrs of Africa’s Mineral Resources: A Reflection by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo and President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), recently delivered a powerful reflection on the exploitation of Africa’s mineral resources. In a hybrid webinar organized to mark the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs, Cardinal Ambongo made a striking comparison, stating that victims of the exploitation of Africa’s mineral resources are today’s modern-day Martyrs.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs by Pope Paul VI on 18 October 1964 in St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome.
The Paradox of Abundance and Poverty
In his address, Cardinal Ambongo highlighted the paradox of abundance and poverty in Africa. Despite the rich mineral resources found on the continent, many African nations continue to grapple with poverty and exploitation. He cited the Democratic Republic of Congo as a prime example of a country rich in resources yet plagued by poverty and misfortune.
The Cardinal emphasized the devastating impact of ‘blood minerals’ on African communities, leading to displacement, human rights violations, wars, and pervasive poverty. He quoted the Congolese Bishops’ statement expressing the tragic reality of their country’s situation.
Lifting the Veil of Suffering Communities
Cardinal Ambongo’s reflection shed light on the harrowing experiences of ordinary villagers living in areas controlled by armed groups and multinational mining companies. He spoke at a Conference in Rome and Online under the theme “The Blood of the Holy Martyrs, Seeds of Hope for an Integral Ecology,” organized by the Congregation of the Missionaries of Africa.
The Cardinal highlighted the suffering and death caused by the exploitation of mineral resources, including violent land dispossession, environmental pollution, and the displacement of families from their homes. He called attention to the destructive impact of blood minerals used in various modern technologies, perpetuating a cycle of chaos and lawlessness in African regions.
Powering Smartphones and Electric Vehicle Batteries
Cardinal Ambongo detailed how minerals essential for smartphones and electric vehicle batteries fuel armed conflicts and perpetuate instability in Africa. He elaborated on the vicious cycle of violence and corruption driven by the extraction and trade of critical minerals, leading to further suffering and vulnerability among local populations.
Lessons Learned from the Martyrs of Uganda
Reflecting on the 60th anniversary of the Uganda Martyrs’ canonization, Cardinal Ambongo drew parallels between the courage of the martyrs and the challenges faced by present-day Africans. He underscored the need for an active and engaged Church that speaks out against injustice and exploitation, echoing Pope Francis’s call for missionary discipleship.
The Cardinal praised individuals, regardless of faith, who have stood against oppression and advocated for social justice, peace, and human dignity. He emphasized the importance of Christian hope as a beacon of light in the face of despair and suffering.
As we commemorate the legacy of the Uganda Martyrs, let us also honor the modern-day martyrs who courageously defend the rights and dignity of African communities affected by the exploitation of mineral resources.
