Tragedy Strikes Mpama South Mine
Dec 22, 2025
A Silent Night Shattered
On a day that the world reserves for peace and family gathering, the mining community in east-central Democratic Republic of the Congo was shaken by a heartbreaking loss. On the evening of December 24, 2025, as the sun set on Christmas Eve, a dedicated employee of Alphamin Bisie Mining S.A. (ABM) did not return home.
At approximately 18:00 local time, amidst the routine yet high-stakes operations of the Mpama South underground mine, a fatal accident claimed the life of a blaster—a skilled worker whose role is vital to the heartbeat of the mine.
The Incident
According to reports from Alphamin Resources, the mine had undergone a scheduled evacuation of underground areas in preparation for a planned night shift blast. This standard procedure is designed to clear the area of all personnel to ensure safety during detonation.
However, tragedy struck during the final critical moments of preparation. The employee was in the process of connecting blasting wires—a delicate task requiring immense precision—when the blast detonated unexpectedly. The premature explosion inflicted fatal injuries, instantly turning a routine operation into a scene of devastation.
The Human Cost
The timing of this tragedy adds a profound layer of sorrow. While families around the globe were preparing for holiday celebrations, a family in the DRC received the news that no loved one should ever hear. The void left by a father, son, or brother lost on Christmas Eve is a stark reminder that the risks of our industry do not take holidays.
The Board of Alphamin Resources expressed deep sadness, stating, "The safety and wellbeing of its employees are the Company's top priority." They have extended their heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, friends, and colleagues impacted by this tragic accident.
A Call for Unwavering Vigilance
Operations at Mpama South were temporarily suspended to allow for a thorough investigation by ABM and local authorities. As the industry mourns, this incident serves as a solemn call to action for safety professionals worldwide.
Blasting operations remain one of the most critical risks in mining. The unexpected detonation of explosives during the connection phase highlights the need for:
Rigorous re-evaluation of blasting circuit testing protocols.
Enhanced safeguards against stray currents or radio frequency interference.
Uncompromising adherence to exclusion zones and lockout procedures.
In Memoriam
At EntirelySAFE, we document these incidents not just as data points, but as tributes to the lives lost. We honor the memory of the blaster at Mpama South by rededicating ourselves to the pursuit of zero harm.
Let this tragedy remind us that every safety protocol we write, every check we perform, and every meeting we hold has a singular, sacred purpose: to ensure that every worker, on every shift, comes home to their family.
EntirelySAFE Supports Voices & Safety at Work
In the aftermath of such a heartbreaking incident, workers, families and safety professionals often find themselves wrestling with questions, concerns and the need to speak up. That's where EntirelySAFE can be a meaningful resource.
1. A Platform for Raising Concerns Confidentially
EntirelySAFE provides secure channels for employees to voice safety concerns they might otherwise be afraid to raise.
2. Centralizing Safety Communication
By collecting concerns and observations in one place, EntirelySAFE helps safety leaders identify patterns or recurring risks that might otherwise go unnoticed.
3. Support for Safety Professionals and Families
EntirelySAFE isn't just for workers. Safety professionals can use it to track the effectiveness of interventions.
4. Encouraging a Culture of Accountability and Care
The worst outcome in any workplace is the loss of life. EntirelySAFE's tools push organizations toward proactive safety cultures.
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