Mali halts licenses for foreign gold miners following fatal accidents

Move aims to protect lives, regulate mining, and address security concerns

BAMAKO, Mali (MNTV) — Mali’s transitional government has suspended artisanal gold mining permits for foreign operators following a surge in deadly accidents at mining sites. 

The suspension comes in the wake of accidents in the Koulikoro and Kayes regions earlier this year, which claimed the lives of dozens. 

Artisanal gold mining, responsible for about 30 tons of Mali’s annual production, accounts for 6% of the country’s total gold output. 

Mali is one of the top three gold producers in Africa.

The decision was announced by President Gen. Assimi Goita after a Council of Ministers meeting and broadcast on the national television station ORTM.

“These measures are designed to strengthen state authority and protect our citizens,” said Gen. Daoud Ali Mohammedine, Minister of Security and Civil Protection. 

He added that mining equipment from unregulated operations would be seized and designated as national heritage.

The decision also addresses broader concerns about unregulated mining in northern Mali, where profits could potentially fund violent groups active in the region.

Mali’s gold mining sector is a major economic driver, supporting over 2 million people, which is more than 10% of the country’s population. 

Several multinational companies, including Barrick Gold, B2Gold, Resolute Mining, and Allied Gold, operate in the country.

Tensions between mining firms and Mali’s military-led government have grown over demands for compliance with a new mining code and additional financial contributions to the state.

The suspension underscores the government’s efforts to regulate the sector, enhance safety, and ensure that the country’s resources are used for national benefit.