At least 30 dead after landfill collapse in Guinea-Conakry

A devastating landslide at a landfill in Guinea-Conakry has claimed the lives of at least 30 people, according to the government. The disaster occurred early Sunday morning when heavy rains caused a massive garbage heap to collapse, burying nearby tents and homes.

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I have lost all my children. The only thing I can do is put my trust in God.

Preliminary reports indicate that more than twenty people were injured, with six in serious condition. Rescue efforts are actively underway at the Dar Es Salam landfill, the country's largest. Witnesses described the collapse as significant enough to engulf an apartment building along with more precarious dwellings.

One woman, Cire Diallo, shared her grief, stating she had lost all five of her children in the tragedy. The Guinean authorities have mobilized resources for search and recovery operations, coordinating with the Red Cross, defense and security forces, medical teams, and local officials. Prime Minister Bah Oury visited the site to oversee the response and offered condolences on behalf of the government.

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The operations continue on the ground, coordinated by the relevant state services with the support of the Red Cross, the Defense and Security forces, medical teams, administrative and local authorities and neighbors.

Guinea, despite possessing vast bauxite reserves and rich iron ore deposits, suffers from widespread poverty and deficient infrastructure. Approximately 3.7 million of its 15.1 million inhabitants live on less than $4.20 per day, according to a World Bank report.

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The government has appealed to the citizens to 'remain calm, show solidarity and strictly adhere to the instructions of the emergency services and competent authorities'.