Mali Suspends Foreign Artisanal Gold Mining Permits Amid Safety Concerns

Mali suspends foreign artisanal gold mining permits following fatal accidents. The government aims to enhance safety and recover mining equipment as national heritage. The mining sector is crucial to Mali’s economy, but concerns over unregulated practices and extremist funding persist.

On Wednesday, Mali announced the suspension of licenses for foreign artisanal gold mining companies following numerous fatal accidents in the nation, recognized as one of Africa’s leading gold producers. This decision was made by General Assimi Goita, president of Mali’s transitional government, after a Council of Ministers meeting that was broadcast on national television.

The suspension is a direct response to several incidents at mining sites that resulted in multiple fatalities, with two of the more recent accidents occurring in January and February in the Koulikoro and Kayes regions, respectively. Artisanal mining in Mali generates approximately 30 tons of gold annually, accounting for 6% of the country’s total gold production.

Furthermore, the Council’s statement mentioned plans to recover equipment used in gold panning, which will now become part of the national heritage. Previously, companies could reclaim their equipment by paying a fine. “These measures are designed to further strengthen the state authorities and protect our fellow citizens,” stated Minister of Security and Civil Protection Gen. Daoud Ali Mohammedine, emphasizing the intent to seize mining equipment for national patrimony.

Concerns have been raised regarding the unregulated mining practices in northern Mali potentially benefiting extremist groups in that area. Gold is of paramount importance to Mali’s economy, representing over 80% of total exports in 2021, according to the International Trade Administration. The mining sector supports over 2 million people, equating to more than 10% of the nation’s population.

As a top gold producer in Africa, Mali hosts several prominent mining companies, including Barrick Gold, B2Gold, Resolute Mining, and Allied Gold. Rising tensions have emerged between military authorities and mining companies, as the latter are required to comply with new regulations and financial demands. Recently, four employees of Barrick were detained in Bamako, and military forces confiscated 3 tons of gold from Barrick’s mining site for deposit in a Bamako bank.

In conclusion, the suspension of artisanal gold mining licenses for foreign entities in Mali reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing safety and regulating the mining sector. Amid rising fatal incidents and concerns over extremist funding, these measures aim to safeguard both public welfare and the national economy. Furthermore, the situation continues to develop as tensions escalate between mining companies and military authorities regarding compliance with new regulations.

Original Source: apnews.com