Tragedy Strikes Again: Illegal Gold Mine Collapse Claims Lives in Mali
Kéniéba, Mali – A devastating collapse at an illegal gold mine near Kéniéba, in Mali’s western Kayes region, has resulted in the deaths of more than 40 individuals, primarily women. This marks the second fatal mining accident in the country within a month, underscoring the perilous conditions within its largely unregulated mining sector.
The disaster occurred on Saturday when the ground gave way in open-pit areas left behind by industrial miners. According to a leader from a gold miners’ union, the victims had been scavenging for gold remnants when the earth unexpectedly crumbled. The exact death toll remains uncertain, with reports fluctuating. A local police source reported 48 fatalities to the AFP news agency, while the industry union head cited 43 victims. A harrowing account from the police source described a woman and her baby perishing in the water. Rescue teams have since recovered the bodies, local sources confirmed to the BBC.
This tragedy follows another mining incident in late January, where at least 10 people perished after a mining tunnel flooded. These events highlight the dangers inherent in Mali’s unregulated mining practices, where miners often employ unsafe methods to extract gold. Just over a year ago, a similar collapse claimed at least 40 lives. The desperate pursuit of gold by illegal miners, particularly women, seeking a livelihood amidst widespread poverty, exacerbates these risks.
A spokesperson from Mali’s mines ministry confirmed the accident took place between Kéniéba and Dabia. Ministry officials are currently preparing a report from the scene, Reuters reports. The site of the collapse was previously operated by a Chinese company, according to the AFP.
China has a significant stake in Mali’s mining sector. While Chinese investment has enhanced Mali’s infrastructure, particularly in transportation, it has also led to considerable debt obligations for the Malian government. Concerns have been raised regarding the government’s capacity to repay these loans and the environmental impact of Chinese mining activities.
The country is also embroiled in a revenue-sharing dispute with Barrick, a major Canadian mining company. The Malian government recently seized gold bars valued at $245 million from Barrick and issued an arrest warrant for CEO Mark Bristow. In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Mr. Bristow expressed confidence in a resolution to the conflict.
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