In western Mali, a tragedy occurred last Friday with the collapse of a mine which unfortunately cost the lives of at least 70 gold miners. This was confirmed by a manager of a group of gold miners in Kangaba. The authorities were slow to communicate the exact number of victims, but the mines ministry ultimately mentioned the death of several gold miners without giving precise figures.
This accident highlights an unfortunately recurring reality in the Sahel region: mines, particularly those dedicated to gold panning, are dangerous places where accidents are frequent. Mali, as one of the main gold producers in Africa, is particularly affected by these tragedies.
This situation is partly due to the fact that artisanal gold mining is difficult to control by the authorities, which leaves room for numerous violations of safety rules. Gold prospectors often operate in precarious conditions, without adequate equipment or training, which increases the risk of accidents.
However, the gold industry plays an essential role in the Malian economy. In 2022, Mali produced more than 72 tonnes of gold, contributing 25% of the national budget and 10% of GDP. However, these economic benefits should not overshadow worker safety.
Faced with these recurring tragedies, it is necessary to strengthen safety standards in mines, by imposing strict regulations and ensuring that they are respected. It is also crucial to increase the training of gold prospectors and make them aware of good practices to reduce the risk of accidents.
Additionally, it is vital to encourage responsible mining, by promoting state participation in mining projects and putting in place strict environmental regulations to limit negative impacts on local communities and ecosystems.
Finally, it is important to emphasize that artisanal gold mining remains a source of income for many workers, who seek to escape poverty. It is therefore essential to find alternative solutions to guarantee their livelihood while ensuring their safety.
In conclusion, the collapse of a mine in Mali which cost the lives of many gold miners highlights the dangers these workers face on a daily basis. There is therefore an urgent need to strengthen mine safety, promote responsible mining and offer economic alternatives to workers. Only in this way can we avoid further tragedies and ensure a safer future for everyone who works in this industry.