A collapse at an illegal goldmine in Mali killed at least 48 miners, mainly young women. The site, previously operated by a Chinese company, highlights the dangers of unregulated mining in the country. Authorities are under pressure to address the issues surrounding artisanal mining, which has become prevalent due to rising demand. The mining sector is crucial to Mali’s economy, yet poses significant safety risks.
On Saturday, a devastating collapse at an illegal goldmine in western Mali resulted in the deaths of at least 48 miners. The incident, reported by officials, disproportionately affected young women, including a mother carrying her child. This tragedy highlights the growing dangers of unregulated mining, as Mali is known for fatal accidents in these operations.
The site of the collapse was an abandoned mine that was previously operated by a Chinese company. Boubacar Keita from the Kenieba gold prospectors’ association noted significant collusion fostering such illegal mining activities. Meanwhile, the local environmental group reported that search efforts for victims are still underway.
Malian authorities face increasing pressure to address the rampant unregulated mining in a country that is among the poorest globally. Artisanal mining has surged, driven by heightened demand for metals and corresponding price increases. However, the rudimentary and unmonitored techniques used by artisanal miners contribute to frequent accidents.
Earlier incidents included a January landslide that killed at least 10 individuals, most of whom were women, with a similar tragedy occurring in January 2024 claiming over 70 lives. Gold mining is crucial to Mali’s economy, with the sector representing more than 80% of total exports and sustaining over 2 million people, about 10% of the population.
In 2023, artisanal mining is estimated to yield around six tonnes of gold for Mali. Nevertheless, there are rising concerns that profits from these unregulated mines could potentially fund Islamist extremists in northern Mali, exacerbating an already complex security landscape in the region.
The recent goldmine collapse in Mali underscores the dangers of unregulated mining practices, which claim many lives, particularly among young women. Authorities are under increasing pressure to curb these activities and address the economic and security implications tied to the mining sector. With gold being a primary export, balancing safety and economic needs remains a critical challenge for Mali.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
