Mali has suspended foreign artisanal mining permits following accidents resulting in 56 deaths, mostly among women and children. The government aims to improve safety and prevent future tragedies. Key measures include revoking local authorities’ powers to issue permits, equipment confiscation, and dismissing officials linked to the incidents.
Mali has officially suspended the issuing of new artisanal mining permits to foreigners due to a recent series of accidents resulting in 56 fatalities, primarily involving women and children. This decision was communicated by Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Daoud Aly Mohamedinne, referencing directives from Interim President Assimi Goita aimed at preventing further tragedies affecting human lives and the environment.
The government’s measures include revoking the authority of local officials to grant mining permits to foreign nationals and confiscating equipment from small-scale gold miners. Additionally, local authorities from areas where fatal accidents occurred may face termination from their positions, as stated in a Bloomberg News article.
There have already been two significant mining accidents in 2023. One incident on February 15 resulted in 43 deaths, predominantly women, in the Kayes region, known for its gold resources. Earlier, on January 29, thirteen miners, including women and children, perished after a tunnel flooded in southwest Mali while they were searching for gold.
In light of these tragedies, Mali’s Council of Ministers, during a regular weekly meeting, confirmed the suspension of artisanal mining permits for foreigners. The council also endorsed the removal of any administrative or security officials linked to the recent fatal incidents, according to an official government statement.
As a major gold producer in Africa, Mali hosts several industrial mining operations run by international corporations such as Barrick Gold, B2Gold Corp, and Resolute Mining, underscoring the significance of this new policy in the context of the mining sector.
The suspension of artisanal mining permits to foreigners in Mali is a significant measure taken in response to tragic accidents that have led to considerable loss of life. By enforcing stricter regulations, the Malian government aims to prevent human and environmental tragedies while ensuring accountability among local authorities. This policy reflects the government’s commitment to safety and oversight in the mining industry, crucial for protecting individuals, especially vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.miningmx.com
