During a high-stakes security meeting chaired by President Alassane Ouattara at the Presidential Palace, government officials reviewed Côte d’Ivoire’s fight against illegal gold mining. The session highlighted the remarkable progress achieved by the Special Task Force Against Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI), launched in 2021, which has dismantled more than 8,500 illicit mining sites nationwide over the past five years.

The latest report, covering operations from 2021 through the first half of 2026, reveals that authorities have not only shut down these unauthorized sites but also arrested 4,474 individuals—65 percent of whom were foreign nationals. Additionally, enforcement teams seized more than 960 million FCFA in illegal proceeds and confiscated approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Heavy machinery and tools used in these illegal operations were also impounded and destroyed.

Persistent threats despite progress

While these figures underscore the scale of the crackdown, security experts warn that illegal gold mining continues to spread across multiple regions, posing severe risks to public safety, environmental stability, and economic integrity. The Council noted that this illicit activity remains a major concern due to its devastating effects on natural habitats, national security, and the country’s financial resources.

Stricter measures and international cooperation

President Ouattara has directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to escalate efforts against illegal mining by imposing stricter penalties on individuals and entities involved. The government plans to strengthen the role of local authorities—including traditional leaders—and security forces through enhanced coordination at the departmental and civil-military levels.

A key strategy involves closer collaboration with foreign embassies to increase awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation of illegal miners from neighboring countries. The Council also emphasized the urgent need to enforce existing laws rigorously, with the Prime Minister tasked to propose stronger legal measures in the next cabinet meeting.

Boosting enforcement capabilities

To sustain these gains, authorities will expand the operational capacity of the GS-LOI and allied security units. The goal is to eliminate illegal gold mining entirely, safeguard Côte d’Ivoire’s ecosystems, and ensure sustainable economic growth for future generations.