48 Killed After Gold Mine Collapses in Mali

A gold mine collapse in western Mali has claimed the lives of at least 48 people, according to local reports on Saturday.

The incident occurred at an unlicensed gold mining site, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in Mali’s booming but often unregulated mining sector.

A police source confirmed that by 6:00 PM local time, the death toll had reached 48, with more victims feared to be trapped beneath the rubble.

This tragedy comes just weeks after another deadly mine collapse in January 2024, which killed over 70 people in Kangaba, a gold-rich town in southwestern Mali.

Mali is Africa’s third-largest gold producer, with the industry playing a crucial role in the nation’s economy.

However, illegal and unregulated mining operations remain widespread, often leading to dangerous working conditions and frequent accidents.