President Alassane Ouattara led a high-level meeting of the National Security Council at the Presidential Palace to assess the country’s security landscape. During the session, officials highlighted significant progress in combating illegal gold mining, a persistent challenge that has plagued Côte d’Ivoire in recent years.
The National Security Council reviewed a comprehensive report covering operations from 2021 through the first half of 2026, revealing that authorities have dismantled more than 8,500 illegal gold mining sites across the nation. The crackdown, spearheaded by the Special Group for Combating Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI), resulted in the arrest of 4,474 individuals, with 65% being foreign nationals. Additionally, enforcement efforts led to the seizure of over 960 million FCFA in illicit funds and approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Numerous tools and equipment used in unauthorized mining were also confiscated and destroyed.
Despite these achievements, the National Security Council acknowledged that illegal gold mining continues to thrive in several regions. The Council emphasized that this illicit activity poses severe risks to Côte d’Ivoire’s environment, national security, natural resources, and economic stability.
In response, President Ouattara directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to escalate efforts to eradicate the problem. Key measures include strengthening the accountability of administrative, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as enhancing coordination between defense and security forces through Departmental Security Committees (CDS) and Civil-Military Cells (CCM), all under the supervision of regional prefects.
The Head of State also called for deeper collaboration with diplomatic missions from the countries of origin of foreign illegal miners. This partnership aims to boost awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation process for those involved in unauthorized mining activities.
The Council underscored the need for strict enforcement of existing laws against all individuals and entities participating in illegal gold mining. Prime Minister Mambé was tasked with presenting a formal proposal to the Council of Ministers to reinforce the national framework for combating this issue.
To further bolster enforcement, the Council approved plans to expand the operational capabilities of the GS-LOI and enhance the readiness of defense and security units working alongside it. These intensified measures reflect the government’s commitment to curbing illegal gold mining, safeguarding natural resources, and fostering sustainable economic growth.
