CONAKRY, Guinea — At least 30 people have been killed after a landslide at a condemned landfill in Guinea’s capital, Conakry, sent huge amounts of waste crashing onto nearby homes.
The Dar Es Salam Dumpsite, located in the Gbessia district, collapsed at around 2:00 a.m. on Sunday following heavy overnight rainfall. Residents were reportedly asleep when the waste swept into surrounding areas.
Rescue teams, including the Red Cross, security and defence forces, medical personnel and local officials, were quickly deployed. Cranes and excavators have been working through massive piles of refuse as rescuers search for survivors and recover bodies.
Authorities say 22 people were injured, including six who are in serious condition and receiving treatment at Donka Hospital. The death toll could rise as the search operation continues, with fears that more victims may remain trapped beneath the debris.
Nearby residents have also joined emergency crews in the rescue effort.
Local resident Mariame Conde said she lost five brothers in the disaster and described the devastation suffered by her family after their home collapsed.
Another resident, Hadia Traore, mourned the loss of a young man who had supported her family during a difficult period, saying his death had left her uncertain about how she would cope.
Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah visited the affected area and conveyed condolences to victims’ families on behalf of President Mamadi Doumbouya and the government. Authorities have pledged support to those affected.
Territorial Administration Minister Djenabou Toure said an investigation into the collapse is underway to establish what caused the disaster.
Residents living near the landfill had reportedly been urged to leave the area, while the site was scheduled for closure on Sunday.
The disaster has renewed concerns about waste management, landfill safety and the risks faced by communities living close to hazardous dumpsites.
Guinea is rich in natural resources, including bauxite, iron ore, gold and diamonds, but continues to face significant levels of poverty, with the World Bank reporting that 43.7% of the population lives below the national poverty line.