Rutsiro: Closed Mine Collapses, Killing Three, One Dead

Rutsiro, Rwanda - A mine that had been inactive for 17 years collapsed on three people engaged in illegal mining in Nyabirasi Sector, Terimbere Cell, Gihinga Village, resulting in the death of Dushimimana Jean Bosco, 36, on the morning of Monday, December 8, 2025.

Family sources said that Dushimimana, an experienced miner of precious metals, previously ran a licensed cooperative but was found engaging in illegal mining at the time of the accident.

Mpirwa Migabomu, Executive Secretary of Nyabirasi Sector, confirmed the incident, explaining that two of the miners escaped after witnessing their colleague collapse.

“The news is true. They went to dig in a mine that was closed in 2008. Two of them saw their colleague fall and ran to alert others, but due to the danger, he died when rocks fell on him during rescue efforts,” said Mpirwa.

He added that the area where the miners were working had soft and unstable ground, making it highly dangerous for illegal mining activities.

Mpirwa urged residents to avoid illegal mining, warning that it carries a high risk of death and potential legal consequences.

The collapsed mine had formerly been operated by KODUBU Company, which ceased activities in 2008.