Ghana's mining industry saw a stark rise in workplace fatalities last year, with deaths increasing by 600%, underscoring urgent safety challenges within the sector.

Fatalities rose to seven in 2023, up from just one in 2022, according to Ghana Chamber of Mines CEO Sulemanu Koney.

Four of these incidents involved contractors, while the remaining three were linked to the activities of a mining leaseholder.

“All classes of reportable injuries increased year-on-year, except near-misses and serious injuries,” Mr. Koney said at the Annual Inter-Mines First Aid and Safety Competition hosted by Asante Gold Chirano Limited.

Near-miss incidents declined by 21.8% to 254 in 2023, down from 325 in 2022.

However, first-aid injuries increased slightly to 162 from 156, while serious injuries—defined as those resulting in more than a 14-day shift loss—dropped 34.6% to 17 from 26 in 2022.

In response to the rise in accidents, the Chamber of Mines has launched several safety initiatives, including a Safety Webinar Series designed to promote best practices among industry players and contractors.

In collaboration with St. John Ambulance, the chamber is also working to enhance emergency response capabilities.

“Every worker must feel safe on our sites,” Mr Koney emphasised, urging companies to view safety as both a regulatory and moral responsibility.

He encouraged contractors to engage in the Safety Webinar series to stay informed on the latest safety protocols.

The mining industry remains a crucial contributor to Ghana’s economy, Mr Koney noted, stressing the importance of a safe working environment for workers and nearby communities.

This year’s Inter-Mines First Aid and Safety Competition, themed “Safety: Our Collective Responsibility,” aimed to reinforce safety awareness across all stakeholders.

“We will continue to involve community members, especially women, in safety competitions to align community and industry safety goals,” Mr Koney added, optimistic that these initiatives would educate miners and community members alike on accident preparedness.

Mr Alfred Asante Yamoah, General Manager of Asante Gold Chirano, echoed these sentiments, stressing that safety is a foundational value for the company and “a prerequisite for everything we do.”

He praised the inclusion of community teams in the event, noting that equipping community members with first aid knowledge is essential for addressing emergencies both within and beyond the mines.

Okoagyeaman Kwaku Gyanprah III, Paramount Chief of Sefwi-Chirano, closed the event by emphasising the importance of first aid as an essential skill, strengthening bonds between mining companies and local communities.

“When the community and industry work hand in hand, safety becomes a shared value that benefits everyone,” he said, commending organisers for their dedication to safety as a core element of the sector’s growth and success.