Malian authorities announced on Wednesday the suspension of artisanal mining permits for foreign operators following a series of fatal incidents across the country, a major player in gold production on the continent. General Assimi Goita, leader of Mali’s transitional government, condemned such operations that have tragically ended the lives of numerous individuals, recent events including January’s incident in Koulikoro and the February occurrence in Kayes.

Approximately 30 tons of gold are annually extracted by artisanal miners, contributing roughly 6% to Mali’s yearly gold production. The Council of Ministers, as reported by ORTM, will enforce measures aimed at retrieving and nationalizing equipment linked to gold panning. This represents a significant shift, as previously foreign mining companies could reclaim their equipment after paying fines.

There’s also concern over potential profits from illicit mining benefiting extremists in northern Mali. Gold accounts for over 80% of export earnings; with more than two million Malian citizens—10% of the populace—relying on the mining sector for employment. Key global players, including Barrick Gold, B2Gold, Resolute Mining, and Allied Gold, have a substantial presence in the country.

Tensions have flared between mining firms and military leaders, who insist on financial compensation and adherence to a revised mining code. As of year-end, four Barrick Gold employees in Bamako remained detained, and military forces seized three tons of gold from a Barrick site, placing it in a Bamako bank.

Source: http://www.africanews.com/2025/03/07/mali-suspends-artisanal-gold-mining-permits-for-foreign-companies-after-series-of-accident/