Seven Miners Killed in Landslide at Lugushwa Artisanal Mining Site
Deadly Landslide at Lugushwa Mining Site Claims Seven Lives, Highlights Safety Risks for Artisanal Miners
A deadly landslide at the G20 mining site in Lugushwa has claimed the lives of seven miners, raising urgent concerns about the safety of artisanal mining operations in the region.
The incident occurred on Thursday, November 6, 2025, when a section of the mine collapsed, burying workers in a drainage area while they were extracting ore. Several others were injured and received immediate care from makeshift first responders at the scene.
Residents of the Wamuzimu chiefdom described the tragedy in vivid terms.
“We heard an immense crash and saw the earth fall on our brothers,” said one distraught witness, reflecting the grief felt throughout the community.
Safety Concerns and Call for Regulation
The disaster has drawn attention to the lack of safety measures at artisanal mining sites. A mining engineer based in Bukavu warned:
“These sites don’t meet any standards for shoring or evacuation. It’s a constant risk for the miners.”
Local authorities have pledged a thorough investigation to prevent future accidents and protect mining communities. Experts stress the urgent need for government oversight and regulation of artisanal mining to improve safety standards and reduce the risk of further tragedies.
