A gold mine collapse in eastern Mali has killed at least 42 people and injured many others, marking the second major accident in the country this year. The incident occurred at a site run by Chinese nationals in the Kéniéba district, and authorities are still investigating whether the mine was operating legally. Just weeks prior, another landslide in the Koulikoro region claimed the lives of several gold miners, mostly women.
Gold is Mali’s most important export, accounting for more than 80% of total exports in 2021. The mining sector supports over 10% of the population and artisanal gold mining contributes around 30 tons of gold annually, representing 6% of the country’s total production. However, concerns have been raised about unregulated mining activities in the northern part of the country potentially benefiting extremist groups operating in the region.
This latest tragedy adds to a history of deadly mining accidents in Mali, including a collapse near the capital Bamako in January last year that killed over 70 people. The international community has been monitoring the situation closely, with the U.S. Department of Commerce highlighting the importance of regulating the mining sector to ensure the safety of workers and prevent further tragedies.
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