Deadly Bridge Collapse at DRC Copper-Cobalt Mine Raises Safety Concerns
A fatal bridge collapse at a copper and cobalt mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has left at least 32 people dead, with the toll expected to rise. The incident spotlights persistent safety and governance gaps in artisanal mining across a country central to the global cobalt supply chain.
Authorities in Lualaba province said the tragedy unfolded at the Kalando mine after days of heavy rainfall flooded the site and prompted an official suspension of access due to landslide risk. Despite the ban, large numbers of informal miners entered the area and crowded onto a makeshift bridge spanning a waterlogged trench, which then gave way under the pressure.
According to the government agency overseeing artisanal and small-scale mining (SAEMAPE), gunfire from soldiers posted near the quarry triggered panic and a sudden crush as miners surged toward the crossing. Many fell into the trench, with officials confirming at least 32 deaths and internal assessments suggesting the number could exceed 40 as recovery operations continue.
The incident underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight, crowd-control measures, and emergency preparedness at mining sites in the DRC. With the country supplying a significant share of the world’s cobalt for batteries and clean energy technologies, such events carry implications for commodity markets and responsible sourcing commitments across global supply chains.
Key Points: – At least 32 people killed after a bridge collapse at the Kalando copper and cobalt mine in Lualaba province, DRC. – Heavy rains had closed the site, but large groups of artisanal miners forced entry. – A makeshift bridge over a flooded trench failed under crowd pressure. – SAEMAPE reports gunfire by soldiers spurred panic, causing a fatal crush. – Death toll could surpass 40 as recovery efforts proceed. – Incident highlights systemic safety and governance risks in DRC’s artisanal mining and cobalt supply chain.
