The President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, chaired a meeting of the National Security Council (Conseil national de sécurité) at the Presidential Palace on July 23, 2026, to assess the country’s overall security situation. A key focus of the session was the progress made in combating illegal gold mining, spearheaded by the Special Task Force Against Illegal Gold Mining (Groupement spécial de lutte contre l’orpaillage illégal, or GS-LOI), established in 2021.

Record-breaking crackdown on illegal gold mining

The latest report, covering the period from 2021 to the first half of 2026, highlights the dismantling of over 8,500 illegal gold mining sites across Côte d’Ivoire. The GS-LOI’s operations have also led to the prosecution of 4,474 individuals, with 65% of them being foreign nationals. Additionally, authorities seized more than 960 million FCFA in cash and approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Dozens of machinery and equipment used in illicit operations were confiscated and destroyed.

Ongoing challenges despite progress

While these results are seen as significant, the National Security Council noted that illegal gold mining persists, and in some areas, continues to expand. The Council emphasized that this ongoing activity poses a serious threat due to its damaging effects on the environment, national security, natural resources, and the Ivorian economy.

Stricter measures announced

In response, President Ouattara instructed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to implement additional measures to intensify the fight against illegal gold mining. Key actions include strengthening the accountability of administrative, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as defense and security forces. This will be achieved through the Departmental Security Committees (Comités départementaux de sécurité, CDS) and Civil-Military Cells (Cellules civilo-militaires, CCM), both placed under the authority of regional prefects.

The Head of State also called for enhanced collaboration with the diplomatic missions of the countries of origin of foreign illegal miners. The goal is to improve awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation of those involved.

Tougher enforcement and policy adjustments

The Council underscored the need for strict enforcement of existing laws against anyone involved in illegal gold mining, whether individuals or entities. Prime Minister Mambé was tasked with swiftly presenting a proposal to the Council of Ministers to strengthen the national framework for combating this issue.

Boosting operational capacity

The National Security Council decided to enhance the operational capabilities of the GS-LOI and the defense and security units working alongside it. These measures aim to ensure more effective coordination and enforcement in the field.

With these new directives, Ivorian authorities are signaling their determination to take decisive action against illegal gold mining. The ultimate objective is to protect the country’s natural resources, safeguard the environment, and secure both national security and economic development.