Miraculous Survival After DRC Mine Collapse. Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo — 2026-02-06 Lead Paragraph: A miraculous story of survival emerged from the aftermath of a catastrophic mine collapse in Rubaya, northwest of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Grace Barata, a miner who was reported missing after the incident, resurfaced after being trapped underground for 21 hours.
The Rubaya mine collapse, which occurred following heavy rains and landslides, has left at least 200 people dead and many more missing, according to rebel authorities in the area.
The mining site, rich in coltan, tin, and tungsten, is a focal point for artisanal miners, who face perilous working conditions daily. Barata, who has been mining since 2012, described the terror and hope during his ordeal. “.
My biggest concern underground was the lack of oxygen, “he said adding that he managed to stay calm and eventually heard rescuers.
After 21 hours, he was pulled from the earth, along with two friends, but many others did not survive.
The incident has sparked a debate over mining safety and the role of the Congolese government in regulating the sector.
The government in Kinshasa has classified the mining area as “red status, “prohibiting all mining activities, yet illegal and unregulated mining continues to be a significant issue. Amnesty International has highlighted the human rights implications of mining in the DRC, including the exploitation of child labor and dangerous working conditions.
The organization’s report emphasizes the need for stronger regulations and enforcement to protect miners.
Despite the dangers, miners like Barata continue to work in the mines due to economic necessity. He expressed a desire to focus on the memories of his fellow miners who did not survive, including a father of two, Bosco, who died in the collapse.
The full extent of the tragedy in Rubaya is yet to be determined, and further investigations are needed to establish the causes of the collapse and the extent of the loss of life.
The situation underscores the urgent need for improved safety standards and regulations in the mining industry in the DRC.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 3*
