The President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, chaired a National Security Council (NSC) meeting at the Presidential Palace to assess the country’s overall security landscape. During the session, officials highlighted the remarkable progress achieved in combating illegal gold mining, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Special Gold Mining Enforcement Group (GS-LOI), established in 2021.
Significant achievements recorded
Over the period from 2021 to the first half of 2026, authorities dismantled more than 8 500 illegal mining sites across Côte d’Ivoire. The GS-LOI’s operations also led to the apprehension of 4 474 individuals, of whom 65% were foreign nationals, alongside the confiscation of over 960 million FCFA in cash and approximately 136 kilograms of gold. In addition, various machinery and tools used in these illicit activities were seized and destroyed.
Persistent challenges remain
Despite these encouraging results, the National Security Council noted that illegal gold mining continues to spread in several regions, posing ongoing security, environmental, and economic risks. The Council underscored that this clandestine practice remains a serious threat to natural resource preservation, national stability, and sustainable development.
Government intensifies response
President Ouattara instructed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to implement all necessary measures to strengthen the crackdown on illegal gold mining. Key measures include:
- Enhancing accountability among administrative, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as defense and security forces, through local security committees and civil-military cells.
- Increasing collaboration with diplomatic missions from the countries of origin of foreign illegal miners to improve awareness campaigns and facilitate the repatriation of offenders.
- Ensuring strict enforcement of existing laws against all individuals or entities involved in illegal mining activities.
- Bolstering operational capacity of the GS-LOI and coordinating units within defense and security forces.
The Prime Minister was tasked with presenting a proposal to the Council of Ministers aimed at reinforcing the national framework against illegal gold mining. The Council emphasized that these measures reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the environment, protecting resources, and fostering economic growth.
