Ghana’s Mining sector sees sharp rise in fatalities, prompting call for industry-wide safety overhaul
Fatalities in Ghana’s mining sector soared in 2023, with deaths rising by 600% compared to the previous year, according to the Ghana Chamber of Mines. The increase from one fatal incident in 2022 to seven in 2023 has ignited calls for comprehensive safety reforms across the industry.
Chamber CEO Sulemanu Koney expressed grave concern over the rising fatalities, highlighting the need for more rigorous safety protocols to address the industry’s inherent dangers. “These incidents underscore the critical importance of rigorous safety practices,” he stated at the Annual Inter-Mines First Aid and Safety Competition hosted by Asante Gold Chirano Limited. Of the seven deaths, four were linked to contractor operations, with the other three involving mining leaseholders.
The report also showed mixed trends in overall reportable injuries. While near-miss incidents declined by 21.8% from 325 in 2022 to 254 in 2023, serious injuries, requiring more than 14 days of missed shifts, saw a notable 34.6% drop, falling to 17 from 26 in the prior year. However, minor injuries requiring first aid increased slightly, rising from 156 to 162.
In response, the Chamber of Mines has launched several initiatives aimed at enhancing safety awareness and preparedness. Among these is the Safety Webinar Series, created to train contractors and mine personnel on updated safety practices. Additionally, a partnership with St. John Ambulance has been established to provide vital first aid training to mining teams.
Koney emphasized that safety in mining is a collective responsibility, urging companies to make safety training for contractors a priority. “Safety on mining sites cannot be compromised. It’s a responsibility shared by all, from management down to the workforce,” he said.
Echoing this, Asante Gold Chirano’s general manager, Ing Alfred Asante Yamoah, reiterated the importance of safety to the well-being of workers and surrounding communities. This commitment was evident at the event, themed “Safety: Our Collective Responsibility,” which saw participation from community representatives and mining professionals alike.
In his closing remarks, the Paramount Chief of Sefwi-Chirano, Okoagyeaman Kwaku Gyanprah III, commended the collaboration between mining firms and local communities. He emphasized that safety education initiatives are vital to fostering unity and resilience, helping both workers and residents be better prepared for emergencies.
