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Local Response
The immediate local response to the gold mine collapse outside the Garin-Liman village had been characterised by the efforts of rescue workers and local volunteers who, equipped only with bare hands and basic tools, were tirelessly digging into the earth to save the lives of numerous young men trapped underground. Unfortunately, their endeavours were impeded by a lack of essential equipment, underscoring the challenges faced in this poor, remote region.

The governor of the Maradi region, Abubakar Shuaib, expressed condolences to the families of the victims during an interview with Amfani Radio and pledged a thorough investigation into the incident. Mayor Adamou Guero of the commune of Dan Issa highlighted the difficulty in controlling such incidents in gold mines, citing the commonality of these challenges. Governor Aboubacar Chaibou, who visited the area, emphasised the need to reorganise the operation to ensure both legal and dignified working conditions, promising a comprehensive review with a focus on maximum security.

Despite closures and security measures undertaken by the Niger government , the persistence of miners returning to the site, even at night, raises concerns about the effectiveness of existing preventive measures and further incidents could not be stopped. This underscores the need for continuous evaluation and adjustment of regulatory frameworks to align with the dynamic nature of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM).

Niger's Commitment to Responsible Mining
The mine collapse highlighted the intricate challenges surrounding ASM in the region. In recent years, there has been a notable surge in attention towards the ASM sector, with heightened interest from governments overseeing production, companies procuring components globally, and international NGOs advocating for the responsible sourcing of minerals.

In response to the frequent collapses of gold mines due to unsafe extraction methods, as well as other issues associated with ASM, the Niger government showcased its commitment to responsible mining practices. The establishment of the Directorate of Small-Scale Mining and Quarrying and the Niger Mining Heritage Company (SOPAMIN) in 2017, demonstrated a proactive approach to address the associated challenges. SOPAMIN’s role in enhancing compliance with safety standards and environmental regulations signifies the government's dedication to ensuring the sustainability of the mining sector.

SOPAMIN faces its own set of challenges including weak decentralisation, inaction and lack of leadership, limited resources, a mismatch of profiles and jobs within the administration, and a lack of synergy between state actors and local authorities. Addressing these internal challenges is crucial for SOPAMIN to effectively enforce and enhance the implementation of regulatory measures, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the mining sector.

Liptako-Gourma Integrated Development Authority (LGA)
The overarching goal of the ALG is to transform the territories of its member states - Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso - into an economically integrated and flourishing domain. This is envisioned through a collaborative, inclusive, and sustainable utilisation of their natural resources within a peaceful and secure environment. The achievement of this vision is contingent on fostering stability, upholding good governance, and respecting human rights. The LGA's regional approach to addressing ASM challenges highlights the transnational nature of artisanal mining. By bringing together its states, the LGA emphasised collaborative efforts to structure and formalise ASM, particularly for gold. This regional initiative contributes to the broader goal of fostering responsible and sustainable mining practices across borders.