Burkina Faso Creates Faso SANU to Overhaul Artisanal Gold Mining

The government of Burkina Faso, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has taken a significant step in managing its artisanal gold mining sector. During a cabinet meeting on November 5, 2026, three decrees were adopted, including one that establishes a state-owned company called Faso SANU. This move aims to reorganize and formalize the artisanal gold mining industry, which has been plagued by informality and illegal activities.

The creation of Faso SANU is part of a broader effort to improve the governance of the gold sector in Burkina Faso. The company will be jointly owned by the National Precious Substances Society (SONASP) and the Treasury, with each holding a 50% stake. According to Energy, Mines, and Quarries Minister Yacouba Gouba, the goal is to "establish a peaceful climate for artisanal gold mining" and to prevent the exploitation of children in the sector.

The Burkinabé government has been working to reform the gold sector for several years. In February 2024, Minister Gouba announced the immediate suspension of gold and precious metal exports from artisanal and semi-mechanized mines. During this period, producers were allowed to sell their output to SONASP. The 2024 Mining Code also introduced new regulations, including the requirement for artisanal miners to form cooperative societies to obtain operating permits.

The move to formalize artisanal gold mining is also driven by concerns about security and revenue. Burkina Faso has been struggling with jihadist violence, which has affected the mining sector. The government hopes that by establishing a more formal and regulated industry, it can increase revenue and reduce the risks associated with informal mining.

The creation of Faso SANU is also expected to help combat illegal gold mining. In a recent operation, Interpol reported nearly 200 arrests in Burkina Faso, Gambia, Guinea, and Senegal in connection with illegal gold mining activities. The Burkinabé government has warned that it will take strict action against anyone found to be employing children in the mining sector.

The establishment of Faso SANU marks a significant shift in the management of artisanal gold mining in Burkina Faso. The company is expected to provide technical support to artisanal miners and help them comply with new regulations. This move is part of a broader effort to improve the governance of the mining sector and increase revenue for the state.

The Burkinabé government's efforts to reform the gold sector have been welcomed by some as a positive step towards more responsible and sustainable mining practices. However, challenges remain, including the need to balance the interests of artisanal miners with those of larger mining companies and the state. As Faso SANU begins operations, it will be closely watched by stakeholders to see if it can achieve its goals and provide a model for sustainable gold mining in the region.

Key points

• The Burkinabé government has created a state-owned company, Faso SANU, to oversee and regulate the country's artisanal gold mining sector.