The President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, chaired a National Security Council (NSC) meeting at the Presidential Palace this week, focusing on the country’s overall security landscape. During the session, the Council highlighted the significant progress achieved in combating illegal gold mining, thanks to the efforts of the Special Task Force Against Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI), established in 2021.
Over the past five years, the GS-LOI has dismantled more than 8,500 illegal mining sites nationwide. Its operations have also led to the arrest of 4,474 individuals—65% of whom are foreign nationals—and the seizure of over 960 million FCFA in cash along with approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Additionally, dozens of machinery and tools used in these illicit activities have been confiscated and destroyed.
Despite these achievements, the NSC expressed concern over the continued—and even growing—presence of illegal gold mining in several regions. The Council stressed that this persistent issue poses severe risks to the environment, national security, natural resources, and the nation’s economic stability.
In response, the Head of State directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to implement stronger measures to intensify the crackdown. Key strategies include tightening oversight by local, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as defense and security forces, through the Departmental Security Committees (CDS) and Civil-Military Cells (CCM) under the authority of regional prefects.
The President also emphasized the need for closer collaboration with diplomatic missions from the home countries of foreign miners. This cooperation aims to enhance awareness campaigns and expedite the repatriation of those involved in illegal mining.
The Council further underscored the importance of strictly enforcing existing laws against all individuals and entities participating in these activities. As part of this effort, the Prime Minister has been tasked with presenting a proposal in the next Council of Ministers to strengthen the national framework against illegal gold mining.
To bolster these initiatives, the NSC resolved to expand the operational capabilities of both the GS-LOI and the defense and security units working alongside it.
With these renewed measures, Ivorian authorities are reaffirming their commitment to eradicating illegal gold mining, safeguarding natural resources, protecting the environment, and securing the nation’s sustainable economic future.