During a high-stakes national security meeting at the Presidential Palace, President Alassane Ouattara reviewed progress in combating illegal gold mining, a persistent threat to Côte d’Ivoire’s stability. The session, held on July 23, 2026, highlighted the achievements of the Groupement spécial de lutte contre l’orpaillage illégal (GS-LOI), established in 2021 to dismantle unauthorized mining operations nationwide.

Record-breaking enforcement results

The GS-LOI’s five-year campaign has led to the closure of more than 8,500 illegal mining sites across Côte d’Ivoire. Authorities have also arrested 4,474 individuals, with foreign nationals accounting for 65% of those detained. Seizures included 960 million FCFA in cash and approximately 136 kilograms of gold, alongside heavy machinery and tools used in illicit extraction. To curb further exploitation, all confiscated equipment has been destroyed.

Ongoing challenges and systemic risks

Despite these successes, government officials warn that illegal gold mining remains a serious and expanding menace. The activity continues to undermine environmental integrity, national security, natural resource conservation, and economic growth. Persistent hotspots in multiple regions threaten efforts to stabilize the sector.

In response, President Ouattara has directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to implement stricter measures. Key actions include strengthening oversight among local administrators, traditional leaders, and security forces through dedicated Comités départementaux de sécurité (CDS) and Cellules civilo-militaires (CCM), all under the authority of regional prefects.

Strengthened collaboration and legal enforcement

Diplomatic engagement with the countries of origin for foreign miners is set to intensify, focusing on awareness campaigns and voluntary repatriation programs. The government also plans to tighten legal penalties for individuals and organizations involved in illegal mining. Prime Minister Mambé has been tasked with presenting updated regulatory proposals to the Council of Ministers to reinforce the national enforcement framework.

The GS-LOI’s operational capacity will be enhanced, alongside support for security units working alongside the group. These measures reflect Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to stamping out illegal mining, protecting its natural heritage, and securing sustainable economic development.