Mali has suspended artisanal mining permits for foreigners due to recent accidents that resulted in 56 fatalities, primarily affecting women and children. This decision, directed by Interim President Assimi Goita, aims to enhance safety measures and includes the dismissal of local officials connected to the incidents. Mali is recognized as a major gold producer in Africa, hosting international mining companies.
The government of Mali has initiated a suspension on new artisanal mining permits for foreign nationals following recent catastrophic accidents that resulted in the loss of 56 lives, predominantly impacting women and children. This directive came under the guidance of Interim President Assimi Goita, with a strong emphasis on enhancing protective measures against future human and environmental tragedies.
Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Daoud Aly Mohamedinne, relayed that the measures instituted include halting local authorities from issuing permits to foreigners, confiscating tools utilized for gold extraction in small-scale mining, and terminating local officials linked to mining incidents.
Recent events have raised alarm, with reports indicating two significant accidents occurring this year alone. The first tragedy on February 15 saw the collapse of a gold mine, resulting in the deaths of 43 individuals, primarily women, in the Kayes region. Earlier, on January 29, a flooded tunnel claimed the lives of 13 artisanal miners, including women and children, underscoring the dangers associated with such mining practices.
In light of these events, Mali’s Council of Ministers convened and unanimously decided to suspend artisanal mining permits specifically for foreign nationals, as reported in a government statement. Additionally, the Council approved the dismissal of both administrative and security officials involved in the management of the sites where these fatalities occurred.
Mali stands as one of Africa’s leading gold producers, hosting large industrial mines managed by several international corporations, notably Barrick Gold, B2Gold Corp, and Resolute Mining, which underscores the significance of addressing these safety issues promptly.
In conclusion, Mali’s decision to suspend artisanal mining permits for foreigners arises from tragic accidents resulting in numerous fatalities. This move aims to enhance safety measures and hold officials accountable within the mining sector. As one of Africa’s premier gold producers, it is paramount for Mali to implement effective regulations to prevent further tragedies.
Original Source: www.miningmx.com
