At least 200 miners were killed after several mine shafts collapsed at coltan sites in Rubaya of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, a spokesperson for the March 23 Movement rebel group confirmed on Friday.
Most of the victims were artisanal miners who were buried, the spokesperson said, adding that children and women were also among the dead.
The collapses occurred on Wednesday and Thursday at different coltan mines in Rubaya, an area controlled by the rebels since April 2024.
Coltan, or columbite-tantalite, is the main source of tantalum, a rare metal used in the production of advanced electronic devices. The United Nations estimated that the Rubaya mines alone account for about 15 percent of the global tantalum supply.
At least 200 killed in mine collapse in eastern DR Congo
China Global Television Network's "All Things Horses" challenge to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Horse is setting the stage for a worldwide artistic celebration, with submissions that blend ancient legends, cross-cultural calligraphy, and digital innovation demonstrating humanity's enduring fascination with the animal.
Master painter Shan Ze, also known as Li Yifan, placed a modern twist on ancient myth in a spellbinding feat of artistic skill: drawing a horse with a single, unbroken line.
Inspired by the classic Chinese text "Shan Hai Jing" (Classic of Mountains and Seas), Shan Ze recreated Jiliang, a legendary celestial horse associated with good fortune. In a mesmerizing performance, his hand never left the page, animating the mythical steed with one elegant stroke.
From the Middle East, the challenge witnessed a breathtaking fusion of cultures as Syrian artist Iyad Nasser merged the flowing aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy with the noble silhouette of a horse.
Each curve and flourish of the script became a celebration of vitality and movement. Through his calligraphic horse, Nasser extended heartfelt wishes for good health, prosperity, and the "Long (Dragon) and Horse Spirit" (vigorous and progressive spirit). His artwork galloped beyond geographic and artistic borders, reminding the world of the universal language of beauty and hope.
Technology and tradition collided when French artist Renaud C. Haslan employed artificial intelligence in his creative process. By blending classic Chinese motifs with cutting-edge AI, Haslan animated the zodiac horse in dynamic motion, turning back in a powerful glance, then lifting its head as if calling to the sky.
From ink and calligraphy to AI-generated marvels, the horse continues to unite diverse creators and spectators on a shared journey into the Chinese New Year.
As the "All Things Horses" challenge unfolds, so too does a message that transcends boundaries: wherever you are in the world, the horse's enduring spirit invites everyone to create, connect, and celebrate.
CGTN’s "All Things Horses" challenge unleashes global stampede of artistic talent
