Mali Suspends Foreign Artisanal Mining Permits Following Deadly Accidents

Mali has suspended the issuance of new artisanal mining permits to foreigners following severe accidents that resulted in the deaths of 56 individuals, mostly women and children. The government is implementing stricter safety measures and dismissing local authorities linked to recent tragedies. These actions aim to prevent future incidents and enhance the regulation of the mining sector.

Mali has announced the suspension of new artisanal mining permits for foreign nationals due to recent tragic accidents that resulted in 56 fatalities, primarily involving women and children. Interim President Assimi Goita directed the government to reinforce measures aimed at preventing similar human and environmental tragedies, according to Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Daoud Aly Mohamedinne.

The newly implemented measures include blocking local authorities from issuing permits to foreign individuals, confiscating equipment used for gold extraction in small-scale mining, and terminating local officials in areas where deadly incidents have occurred. Notably, two significant accidents have been reported this year alone, with a mine collapse on February 15 claiming 43 lives in the Kayes region and another incident on January 29 leading to 13 fatalities, including women and children.

In light of these incidents, Mali’s Council of Ministers convened a weekly meeting, during which they ratified the suspension of artisanal mining permits for foreign nationals. This decision follows the government’s commitment to address the tragedies that have unfolded by also approving the dismissal of relevant administrative and security personnel linked to these accidents. Mali, recognized as one of Africa’s leading gold producers, boasts industrial mines managed by companies such as Barrick Gold, B2Gold Corp, and Resolute Mining.

The decision to suspend artisanal mining permits for foreigners in Mali reflects the government’s response to serious accidents that have led to a significant loss of life. As the nation seeks to enhance operational safety and accountability, these measures aim to prevent future tragedies and ensure a more regulated mining environment. Mali’s status as a prominent gold producer further emphasizes the need for careful management of its mining activities.

Original Source: www.miningmx.com