The Head of State, Alassane Ouattara, presided over a National Security Council (NSC) meeting at the Presidential Palace on a recent Thursday, focusing on the country’s overall security landscape. During the session, council members highlighted the significant progress achieved in combating illegal gold mining, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Special Task Force Against Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI), established in 2021.
Record-breaking enforcement results
Between 2021 and the first half of 2026, the GS-LOI dismantled over 8,500 illegal mining sites nationwide. The crackdown also led to the arrest of 4,474 individuals, with 65% of them being foreign nationals. Authorities seized assets totaling more than 960 million West African CFA francs and approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Additionally, numerous tools and machinery used in illicit operations were confiscated and destroyed.
Persistent challenges in the fight against illegal mining
Despite these achievements, the National Security Council acknowledged that illegal gold mining remains a growing concern in several regions. The practice continues to pose severe risks to Ivory Coast’s environment, national security, natural resources, and economic stability.
Government’s intensified response
Alassane Ouattara directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to implement stricter measures to curb this illegal activity. Key actions include:
- Strengthening accountability among administrative, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as defense and security forces, through Departmental Security Committees (DSCs) and Civil-Military Cells (CMCs) under prefectural oversight.
- Enhancing collaboration with diplomatic missions from the countries of origin of foreign illegal miners to improve awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation of involved individuals.
- Ensuring rigorous enforcement of punitive laws against all individuals or entities engaged in this illicit activity.
The Prime Minister was tasked with presenting a proposal to the Council of Ministers to reinforce the national framework for combating illegal gold mining without delay.
Boosting operational capacity
The NSC also resolved to increase the operational capabilities of the GS-LOI and the defense and security units working alongside it. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to tightening the fight against illegal gold mining to safeguard natural resources, protect the environment, and ensure national security and economic growth.