The death toll from a devastating landfill collapse in Guinea’s capital has risen to 34, with 17 of the deceased confirmed as Sierra Leonean nationals, according to an official update from Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The disaster struck the Dar-es-Salam landfill in the Gbessia district of Conakry during heavy rainfall in the early hours of August 23. A mountainous heap of refuse collapsed onto nearby makeshift homes and dwellings, burying residents as they slept.
A joint identification exercise conducted by Guinean authorities and officials from the Sierra Leonean Embassy at hospital mortuaries in Conakry has confirmed that the Sierra Leonean victims comprise 14 men and 3 women . The Guinean government has reported 34 total fatalities, and efforts to recover bodies and identify victims are ongoing.
The Sierra Leonean Embassy has confirmed 54 survivors from the community: 32 women, 17 men, and 5 minors. Immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, clothing, and essential supplies, has been provided to those affected, with further needs being assessed in coordination with authorities.
The landslide occurred after torrential rains destabilized the enormous waste pile at the Dar es Salaam site, which was reportedly designated for closure on the very day of the tragedy .
Authorities had previously announced plans to evict residents from the area due to the risk of landslides. The disaster has displaced an estimated 1,500 families, with the government organizing relocation efforts.
The Government of Sierra Leone has extended its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Guinea during this difficult time.
The Ministry appreciates the cooperation and assistance of the Guinean government throughout the recovery and identification process.
Given the sensitive and evolving situation, the Ministry urges the public to treat information about casualties and missing persons with care and to rely only on officially verified information.
The Embassy remains actively engaged with Guinean authorities and the affected families.










