TikTokers quit vaping in solidarity with Congo

TikTok users are announcing they are quitting vapes because they rely on the use of cobalt which is mined in Congo’s eastern region.

TikTokers are giving up vaping - not for their health concerns but in solidarity with the people of Congo.

TikTok creator @itskristinamf kicked off the trend - posting a video explaining her decision to quit 

“I’ve been learning what’s going in Congo and the conditions over there because of f*cking cobalt, because we need these for electronics,” she explained.

“I know these are the last words you thought you’d ever hear me say in my f*cking life, but I’m quitting vaping. I’m officially f*cking done.”

The video gained more than 1.2 million views and inspired other TikTok users to also give up their vape pens.

An estimated 70% of the world's cobalt comes from the city of Kolwezi, and the demand for cobalt continues to grow since it’s used in the manufacturing of lithium ion rechargeable batteries found in vapes, TVs, phones and electric vehicles. 

Cobalt mining in the DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo) is extremely hazardous and has caused the Congolese people to experience displacement, rape and violence and continuous exposure to toxic and deadly materials.

Thousands have become displaced as mines have taken over villages and uprooted the livelihoods of children who are forced to dig in the mines to earn little money.

Would you give up vaping in solidarity with Congo?

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