Three Miners Killed in Rockfall at Gbane: Artisanal Mining Safety Crisis in Ghana

Introduction

A tragic rockfall at an artisanal gold mining site near Gbane, in Ghana’s Upper East Region, has claimed the lives of three miners, highlighting the persistent and deadly safety gaps within the country’s informal mining sector. The incident occurred on the night of February 16, 2024, at approximately 10:30 p.m., when a large slab of rock broke loose and struck the victims as they worked underground. This event is not an isolated occurrence but part of a recurring pattern of fatal accidents in small-scale mining operations across Ghana, particularly in the northern territories where regulatory oversight is often weakest. The deceased—Subil Nmabil (approx. 30), Musah Zipati (approx. 40), and Onyin Udasaa (approx. 35)—were employees of the mine owner, Tii Musah. Their deaths have once again thrust the issue of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) safety into the national spotlight, demanding urgent attention from policymakers, industry stakeholders, and local communities. This article provides a comprehensive, SEO-optimized examination of the incident, its underlying causes, the broader context of Ghana’s ASM sector, and actionable steps to prevent future tragedies. By understanding the risks and systemic failures that lead to such disasters, we can advocate for stronger protections for some of Ghana’s most vulnerable workers.

Key Points