Landfill collapse kills 30 in Guinea’s capital after heavy rains

A devastating landfill collapse in Guinea's capital, Conakry, resulted in the deaths of 30 people early Sunday morning, August 23, 2026. Heavy overnight rains caused a massive mound of refuse at the Dar Es Salam landfill to give way, engulfing nearby homes and shacks in the Gbessia commune. Six individuals were also seriously injured, with an additional 16 sustaining lighter injuries.

The incident occurred despite recent government announcements to close and relocate the city's largest landfill due to safety concerns, particularly during the rainy season. Authorities had issued eviction notices to residents living near the site, though many were still in the vicinity at the time of the disaster.

Rescue operations were immediately launched, with excavators deployed to search for victims amidst the debris. Guinea's Prime Minister, Amadou Oury Bah, visited the scene as efforts continued to find those buried and provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.