Deadly Collapse at Illegal Gold Mine in Mali Claims Over 40 Lives

More than 40 individuals, primarily women, lost their lives in an illegal gold mine collapse in western Mali, shedding light on the perils of the country’s mining industry.

In a heart-wrenching event that took place near Kenieba in Mali's Kayes region, a collapsed illegal gold mine has resulted in the deaths of over 40 individuals, with conflicting reports indicating a death toll ranging from 43 to 48. The victims were sifting through remnants left by industrial mining companies when the earth gave way. According to a leader from the gold miner's union, many of the victims were drawn to the open-pit mines seeking gold scraps. Tragically, reports revealed that among those lost was a woman with a baby strapped to her back.

This incident marks Mali's second fatal mining accident in recent weeks, following another occurrence where at least ten miners died due to flooding in a tunnel in late January. Mining accidents occur frequently in Mali, primarily due to the unregulated nature of many mining operations, where unsafe practices are often employed.

The country, recognized as one of the world’s largest gold producers, is struggling with the challenges of both safety and governance in the sector, particularly concerning illegal mining activities. Earlier this week, a spokesperson from the Mali mining ministry confirmed that the collapse transpired between Kenieba and Dabia, but refrained from releasing further details as ministry officials began investigating the incident.

The site was previously managed by a Chinese corporation and now highlights the involvement of various foreign entities in Mali’s resource extraction industry. Presently, Mali’s government is embroiled in a dispute with the Canadian mining firm Barrick Gold, which includes the recent seizure of gold bars worth $245 million and an arrest warrant for the company’s CEO, Mark Bristow. Mr. Bristow expressed confidence in resolving the conflict, underscoring the tensions surrounding Mali's lucrative but dangerous gold mining sector.