Coltan Mine Collapse in Rwanda | One Dead Including Students

Coltan Mine Collapse in Rwanda | One Dead, Four Injured Including Students

A Fatal Coltan Mine Collapse in Rwanda

A coltan mine collapse in Rwanda happened on the evening of Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Muheta Village, Kanyana Cell, Rugendabari Sector, Southern Province. The mine, operated by DABA Supply Ltd, is officially registered and licensed under Rwanda’s mining laws.

Sadly, the incident took the life of Hakizineza Adrien, a 25-year-old miner. Four others were injured in the collapse, including two students who were on school holiday and had come looking for part-time work in the mine.

This tragedy comes at a time when other sectors in Rwanda are also facing challenges. Read about the rising breast and cervical cancer cases in Rwanda.

What Caused the Coltan Mine Collapse in Rwanda?

The acting Executive Secretary of Rugendabari Sector, Bizimana Sixbert, confirmed the details of the fatal accident. Adrien died after being trapped underground. One of the injured victims was transferred to Kabgayi Hospital, while the remaining three were treated at Gasovu Health Center and discharged the same evening.

Two of the four injured were 18 and 19 years old and were students seeking income during the school holiday. This has raised concerns about youth safety and the need for improved labor protections in high-risk sectors like mining.

Mining Company Supports Victims’ Families

According to local leaders, DABA Supply Ltd has provided support for the victim’s family. The company arranged the transport of Adrien’s body to Kabgayi Hospital and is covering all funeral expenses.

As the workers were reportedly insured, the family is also expected to receive compensation in line with national labor standards.

For the original report and photo coverage, see our main article on the coltan mine collapse.

Police Investigation Underway

According to the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB)](https://rmb.gov.rw/index.php?id=2), all licensed mining companies must follow national safety standards and labor regulations.

SP Emmanuel Habiyaremye, Police Spokesperson for Southern Province, announced that an investigation into the coltan mine collapse in Rwanda is already underway.

“There are times when accidents happen due to unstable ground, or due to errors made by miners. We will determine the exact cause once the investigation is complete,” said SP Habiyaremye.

He further noted that DABA Supply Ltd operates legally and with valid licensing issued by the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB).

👉 According to the Rwanda Mines Board, all mining companies are required to follow strict national safety and labor regulations.

Improving Mining Safety in Rwanda

This coltan mine collapse in Rwanda is a tragic reminder of the risks faced by mining communities — even in legally licensed operations. The Rwandan government has continued to encourage all mining companies to:

• Conduct regular safety training
• Follow geological surveys before digging
• Equip miners with protective gear
• Supervise operations with certified professionals

Local officials are now calling for greater enforcement of these safety rules to protect lives.

Rwanda is making strides in modernizing its industries. Read how the country is improving accountability through SACCO digitization.

Conclusion

The coltan mine collapse in Rwanda that killed one and injured four — including young students — has sparked both sorrow and concern across the country. While the company has shown responsibility in offering support and the police are investigating the cause, this accident serves as a powerful call to improve safety measures in all mining operations.

Stronger regulation, worker education, and regular inspections are vital to prevent similar tragedies in the future.