This archive report was first published on 2 September 2019.
At least 15 people lost their lives in a devastating building collapse in Bamako, the capital of Mali, on Sunday.
According to reports, the three-storey building under construction collapsed just before dawn, with the top floor falling onto the occupied lower floors.
Despite the tragic loss of life, 26 people were rescued alive from the rubble, with emergency services working tirelessly to save those trapped.
"Thanks to the determination of the emergency services, a young girl of around four years has just been pulled out of the rubble alive," the civil protection ministry said.
Another survivor, a woman, was also extracted by rescuers, bringing hope to those affected by the disaster.
The collapse has sparked an investigation into the building's owner, with the civil protection ministry opening a probe into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Such collapses are common in Mali, where buildings are often constructed without planning permission, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to prevent such disasters.
Published on AFP on September 2, 2019.
