### mining incident in Kisankala: a call for reflection and action
On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a tragic incident hit the village of Kisankala, located in the province of Lualaba in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to sources of civil society, this event would result from an illegal mining, under the responsibility of Chinese operators on a concession belonging to the Swamines company. The first information reported by journalist Mika Tenga evoke more than 200 people trapped under the debris of a career.
#### A context of vulnerability
The artisanal mining is a complex reality in the DRC, where thousands of people depend on these activities for their subsistence. This situation highlights the challenges linked to the regulation of mining, as well as the dangers that workers run under often precarious conditions. Economic inequalities, the weakness of infrastructure and the fragility of institutions in certain regions exacerbate the risks linked to these practices.
The absence of clear regulations and adequate monitoring leaves the door open to illegal farms. The latter are often carried out by companies which favor their economic interests at the expense of workers’ safety. This phenomenon raises fundamental questions about the responsibility of private and public actors in the management of these activities.
### Local reactions
Faced with the consequences of the incident, members of civil society organize themselves to call for urgent intervention by the authorities. We await an adapted response from the provincial authorities, in particular with regard to the safety of operating zones and the rights of the affected populations. This type of mobilization is essential to make the most vulnerable voices heard.
In contrast, handcrafted hollowers describe a different situation, saying that there had been no landslides, but a landslide. This perspective underlines the need for a balanced approach which takes into account the various opinions and experiences of the actors concerned: mining operators, diggers, as well as the inhabitants. Historical events tell us that the responses to crises must be based on nuanced analyzes and not on conjectures.
#### The quest for an effective response
The rescue coordinate is essential to manage a crisis of this magnitude. The customary chief Semba reports that 65 people have been rescued, but there are uncertainties as for many others. It is imperative that the intervention teams can quickly access the area, without hindrances from people involved in dubious exploitation.
Debrication efforts must be accompanied by a broader reflection on the management of the mineral resources and the safety of workers. The assistance and supervision service of the artisanal mining and on a small scale (SAEMAPE) is called to play a key role in this situation, but how to ensure that these structures can really exercise their mission?
### towards sustainable solutions
This drama highlights priorities to review regarding the supervision of mining. The regulation of artisanal mining activities must be a priority for the Congolese state. What form should be effective? This could go through training to educate minors about security standards, as well as to promote sustainable operating practices.
In addition, discussions must be made between the various actors: the authorities, civil society organizations, investors and local communities. An open dialogue can promote the creation of security protocols, while protecting the rights of minors and guaranteeing an environmentally friendly exploitation.
#### Conclusion
Kisankala’s incident is not only a tragic news item; It symbolizes the challenges encountered in a crucial sector for the DRC economy. This drama calls for a collective reflection on the responsibilities, rights and safety of workers in the mining sector. The establishment of a legal framework, the establishment of clear priorities and the commitment of the various actors are essential conditions for preventing future accidents and promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development. The voices of the victims and their families must resonate hard and clear so that this type of tragedy is no longer repeated.