Central African Republic Gold Mine Collapse Kills More Than 100

More than 100 people were killed when an artisanal gold mine collapsed in the Central African Republic on Tuesday, according to a senior official from a local mining association.

The collapse occurred at a mine in the village of Zamboye near the border with Cameroon, although prosecutors said the final death toll and other details were still being established.

Rescue operations were continuing as authorities worked to recover victims and determine what caused the collapse.

A prosecutor said an investigation would also examine who was operating the mine.

Cameroonian authorities said they were prepared to receive injured victims who crossed the border and provide them with medical treatment.

Artisanal Mining Safety Concerns

Artisanal mining provides livelihoods for communities across Africa but remains vulnerable to serious safety risks because of weak regulation, limited equipment and poor working conditions.

The disaster highlights the dangers facing workers in informal and small-scale mining operations and the need for stronger safety standards, effective regulation and emergency response capacity.