Tragic Landslide at Illegal Mine Claims 22 Lives in Northern Tanzania

A devastating landslide occurred at an illegal mine in northern Tanzania, claiming the lives of twenty-two people. The incident unfolded at the Ng’alita mine in the Bariadi district of the Simiyu region on a Saturday, according to district commissioner Simon Simalenga.

This unfortunate event transpired when a group of individuals engaged in mining activities in an area where such operations were restricted due to heavy rains, as reported by Reuters news agency. President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her deep sorrow at the news, highlighting that these miners were striving to earn a livelihood for themselves and their families.

Initially, Mr. Simalenga was informed that 19 to 20 people were trapped within the mines. However, the final count revealed that 22 bodies were recovered from the site. Faustine Mtitu, the acting commander for the region’s fire and rescue forces, stated that the search had concluded, as there was confidence that no more bodies were trapped in the rubble, as cited by AFP news agency.

Mr. Simalenga explained that this group of people had commenced mining activities in the mineral-rich area approximately three weeks before the government imposed safety regulations. The region had been restricted due to ongoing heavy rains, which had caused flash floods.

“The regional mining officer visited them and stopped them from mining as it was working on the required procedures,” Mr. Simalenga stated.

Illegal and unregulated mining is a prevalent issue in Tanzania, despite its status as one of the world’s leading gold producers. This tragic incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of safety measures and regulations within the mining industry to prevent further loss of life in such perilous conditions.