DR Congo – 50 Feared Dead as Mine Collapses During Floods

At least 50 people are feared dead after the tragic collapse of a mine in Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

The incident occurred on 11 September in a mine near the town of Kamituga in South Kivu province in the east of the country. Such accidents are common in DR Congo’s mining industry, which has poor safety standards. However, media reports suggest flooding caused the mine to collapse. Local observers said torrential rainfall in the area caused a nearby river to break its banks, flooding several tunnels in the mine.

Governor of South Kivu province, Theo Kasi, offer his condolences and said a delegation has been deployed to the site to provide urgent assistance and he provincial government has ordered an investigation to establish responsibilities.

A statement from the office of the President, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, said the President is “deeply saddened after the announcement of the disappearance of some fifty artisanal miners in Kamituga in South Kivu.

“He offers his deepest condolences to the bereaved families. He invites the whole Nation to have a pious thought for these compatriots.

“The Head of State invites the Government to take strong measures so that such tragedies do not happen again.”

Social Media