The Head of State, Alassane Ouattara, convened a high-level session of the National Security Council (NSC) at the Presidential Palace on a recent Thursday. The gathering focused on reviewing Côte d’Ivoire’s overall security landscape, with particular attention given to the ongoing battle against illegal gold mining.

Since its establishment in 2021, the Special Task Force Against Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI) has dismantled over 8,500 unauthorized mining sites nationwide. Between 2021 and the first half of 2026, the initiative has led to the removal of these operations, the apprehension of 4,474 suspects—nearly 65% of whom were foreign nationals—and the confiscation of more than 960 million West African francs along with approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Heavy machinery and tools used in illicit extraction were also seized and destroyed.

Despite these achievements, the NSC noted that illegal gold mining continues to spread in several regions, posing persistent threats to the environment, national security, natural resources, and economic stability.

In response, President Ouattara has directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to escalate enforcement measures. Key measures include strengthening accountability among local, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as defense and security forces through departmental security committees and civil-military units under prefectural oversight.

The Head of State emphasized the need for closer collaboration with foreign embassies to enhance awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation of illegal miners. He also called for stricter enforcement of punitive laws targeting individuals and entities involved in the practice. The Prime Minister has been tasked with presenting a comprehensive action plan to the Council of Ministers to reinforce the national framework against illegal gold mining.

To bolster operational capacity, the NSC has approved increased resources and logistical support for both the GS-LOI and coordinated security units. These measures reflect a renewed commitment to curb illegal gold mining, safeguard natural resources, protect the environment, and secure Côte d’Ivoire’s economic development.