Mon Feb 17 01:36:30 UTC 2025: ## Mali Gold Mine Collapse Kills 43, Mostly Women
**BAMAKO, Mali (The Hindu) —** At least 43 people, predominantly women, died in a gold mine collapse in western Mali on Saturday, according to the head of a local industry union. The tragedy occurred near Kenieba in the Kayes region, a known gold-rich area.
Taoule Camara, secretary general of the national union of gold counters and refineries (UCROM), stated that the victims were scavenging for gold in abandoned open-pit mines left behind by industrial operations when the ground gave way. A spokesperson for the Malian mines ministry confirmed the accident, but withheld further details pending a report from investigators on the scene.
Artisanal mining is widespread across West Africa and has seen a surge in activity due to increased metal demand and higher prices. However, the industry is notorious for its unsafe practices and frequent deadly accidents. This incident follows a similar tragedy in late January where 13 artisanal miners, including women and children, perished in a flooded gold mine tunnel in southwest Mali.
First Piper 