The Burkina Faso government has taken a significant step in valorizing its mining resources with the launch of its first gold refinery, RAFFINOR-BF. The facility, spanning 5 hectares, aims to enhance local transformation of gold and increase the value created within the country. This development marks a new stage in the country's efforts to move beyond mere extraction and exportation of raw gold.
The refinery, in its first phase, has a capacity to process 164 tonnes of gold per year, with plans to increase this to 515 tonnes annually by the end of the second phase. The project has received an investment of over 11 billion francs CFA, approximately 19 million dollars. This significant investment is expected to generate over 100 direct jobs and nearly 5,000 indirect jobs, contributing to the country's economic growth.
The Burkinabè authorities aim to elevate the country's position in the gold value chain through this refinery. By integrating more processing and refining locally, the government seeks to retain a larger share of the value added by gold. The refinery will produce gold with a purity of up to 99.99%, meeting international market standards. This move is crucial as gold plays a central role in Burkina Faso's economy.
In 2025, Burkina Faso produced over 94 tonnes of gold, with industrial mines producing 26.752 tonnes in the first half of 2026. The Société nationale des substances précieuses (SONASP) collected nearly 29 tonnes from artisanal and semi-mechanized mining during the same period. The new refinery will enable the country to better control a strategic stage of the gold value chain.
The launch of RAFFINOR-BF is part of a broader strategy to enhance local transformation of mining resources and increase the economic benefits of gold exploitation for the country. By developing local treatment and refining activities, the government aims to retain a larger portion of the value added by gold. This project is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy.
The refinery's production will not only meet local demands but also cater to international markets. With its state-of-the-art facilities, RAFFINOR-BF is poised to become a significant player in the global gold market. The project's success will depend on various factors, including the government's support and the global market trends.
The Burkinabè government's efforts to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on raw material exports are commendable. The launch of the gold refinery is a step in the right direction, and its success will be closely watched by investors and industry experts. The project's impact on the country's economy and employment rates will be significant.
Key points
- The refinery has a capacity to process 164 tonnes of gold per year in its first phase.
- The project has received an investment of over 11 billion francs CFA.
- The refinery will produce gold with a purity of up to 99.99%.
