24 Aug 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : A landslide at a landfill in Guinea’s capital, Conakry, killed 30 people after heavy overnight rains caused a massive mound of waste to collapse onto nearby homes and makeshift shelters, the government said.
Heavy Rains Trigger Landfill Collapse
The disaster occurred at around 2 a.m. in the Gbessia commune of Conakry. Torrential rain caused a large mound of refuse at the landfill to collapse, engulfing nearby tents and shacks.
Six Seriously Injured
Authorities said six people were seriously injured, while another 16 suffered minor injuries.
Rescue teams were using excavators and other equipment to search through the debris and look for survivors. Witnesses said the collapse was large enough to bury an apartment building along with smaller homes.
Families Living Near Landfill Hit
The landfill, located in the Dar es Salam area of Conakry, was surrounded by residential structures and makeshift dwellings.
The disaster has highlighted the risks faced by people living close to large waste dumps, particularly during Guinea’s rainy season.
Government Had Planned to Close the Site
The tragedy occurred less than a week after the government announced plans to close the landfill and relocate waste outside Conakry because of safety concerns.
Authorities had warned that the site posed particular dangers during the rainy season, when landslides and flash floods can become deadly.
Rescue and Relief Operations Continue
Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah visited the site to assess the damage and oversee the response.
The government urged residents to remain calm, show solidarity with affected families and follow instructions from rescue services and authorities.
Guinea Faces Infrastructure Challenges
The disaster has also drawn attention to Guinea’s wider infrastructure and poverty challenges.
Although the West African country has enormous mineral resources, including the world’s largest bauxite reserves, many communities continue to face inadequate infrastructure and difficult living conditions.
A Tragedy During the Rainy Season
The landfill collapse adds to the risks posed by heavy seasonal rainfall across parts of West Africa.
For residents living near unstable waste sites, intense rain can increase the likelihood of landslides, flooding and structural collapse.
Authorities Face Questions Over Safety
The fact that the landfill was already scheduled for closure is likely to intensify questions about safety measures and the relocation of residents living nearby.
The government has said remaining families will be moved to safer locations.