DR Congo Mine Collapse Kills Over 200

2 February 2026

SMF News

More than 200 people are reported dead after a mine collapse in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the deadly risks faced by civilians working in informal mining zones amid conflict.

Rebel authorities in North Kivu say the mine in Rubaya collapsed on Wednesday following heavy rains. A spokesman for the region’s rebel-appointed governor said the full death toll is still being assessed.

Women and children were among those mining coltan, a mineral used in smartphones and computers. About 20 survivors are receiving treatment in hospital.

A former mine supervisor told the BBC the site was poorly maintained, with fragile soil conditions worsening the impact and slowing rescue efforts.

The Congolese government has blamed M23 rebels for allowing illegal mining without safety standards, saying mining in the area had been banned before rebels seized control.

Rubaya’s mines are estimated to hold around 15 percent of the world’s coltan supply, underlining the high human cost behind global electronics production.

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