During a high-stakes security meeting at the Presidential Palace, President Alassane Ouattara reviewed progress in Côte d’Ivoire’s battle against illegal gold mining. The session, held on a recent Thursday, focused on the National Security Council’s latest assessment of nationwide security challenges, with particular emphasis on the campaign waged by the Special Task Force Against Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI), established in 2021.
The figures speak for themselves: between 2021 and the first half of 2026, authorities dismantled over 8,500 illegal mining sites across Côte d’Ivoire. The GS-LOI’s operations also led to the arrest of 4,474 individuals, 65% of whom were foreign nationals. Additionally, more than 960 million West African CFA francs in cash and approximately 136 kilograms of gold were seized, along with a range of machinery and equipment used in illicit mining activities, all of which were subsequently confiscated and destroyed.
Despite these achievements, the National Security Council voiced concerns about the persistent—and in some areas expanding—presence of illegal gold mining. Officials warn that this unregulated activity poses severe risks to the environment, national security, natural resource preservation, and the nation’s economic stability.
In response, President Ouattara directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to escalate enforcement measures against illegal mining operations. Key strategies include tightening oversight over traditional and administrative leaders, as well as bolstering coordination among defense and security forces through departmental security committees and civil-military units under the authority of regional prefects.
Diplomatic collaboration and stricter penalties
The government also called for stronger partnerships with diplomatic missions representing the countries of origin of foreign illegal miners. The goal is to enhance awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation of those involved in these illicit activities.
Furthermore, the Council underscored the need for strict enforcement of existing laws against all individuals and entities participating in illegal gold mining. Prime Minister Mambé has been tasked with presenting a comprehensive plan to the Council of Ministers to reinforce the national framework for combating this issue.
To reinforce these efforts, authorities have approved plans to expand the operational capacity of the GS-LOI and improve the readiness of supporting defense and security units working alongside the task force.
The National Security Council emphasized that these measures reflect Côte d’Ivoire’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal gold mining. The goal is clear: safeguard the nation’s natural resources, protect the environment, and uphold security and economic development for all Ivorians.
