Addis Ababa: A landslide has swept through a massive rubbish dump on the outskirts of Ethiopia's capital, killing at least 46 people and leaving several dozen missing, as officials vowed to relocate those who called the landfill home.

Addis Ababa city spokeswoman Dagmawit Moges said most of the dead were women and children, and more bodies were expected to be found in the coming hours.

It was not immediately clear what caused Saturday night's landslide at the Koshe Garbage Landfill, which buried several makeshift homes and concrete buildings. The landfill has been a dumping ground for the capital's rubbish for more than 50 years.

About 150 people were there when the landslide occurred, resident Assefa Teklemahimanot said. Addis Ababa mayor Diriba Kuma said 37 people had been rescued and were receiving medical treatment. Ms Dagmawit said two had serious injuries.