Mali Suspends Artisanal Gold Mining Due to Heavy Rain Forecast

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Mali produced 51 metric tons in 2024. which is a 23% drop from the year before. The country remains one of Africa’s main gold producers. 

Mali has suspended artisanal gold mining activities from June to September to protect workers from landslides during the rainy season, the Malian Mines Ministry said. The Meteorological services have forecast heavy rains from June 15 to 30 June and from September 15 to 30, adding that safety reasons motivated the decision.

The Malian government suspended the granting of new artisanal mining permits to foreigners in March, after two accidents killed dozens of people, mostly women.  More than 70 people had died in January 2024 when a tunnel collapsed in an unregulated gold mine.

Deadly accidents are frequent, as artisanal miners often use old-fashioned and unregulated methods of digging. Illegal mining also increases safety risks. Artisanal mining in West Africa has increased in recent years due to growing demand and rising prices.

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Mali produced 51 metric tons in 2024. which is a 23% drop from the year before. The country remains one of Africa’s main gold producers.