The prefect of the Gontougo region, Kouadio Gbongbo André, has tasked the defense and security forces (FDS) and the prefectural corps with eliminating illegal gold mining in the region within six months. This decision was made during a meeting of the departmental security committee (CDS) held on October 2, 2026, in Bondoukou. The prefect emphasized that this mission is a priority, as instructed by the head of state.
To achieve this goal, the prefect has instructed the FDS and prefectural corps to strengthen their collaboration and combine their efforts. The sub-prefects are responsible for gathering intelligence, identifying illegal mining sites, and transmitting this information to the CDS, which will coordinate interventions by competent forces. The prefect stressed that sub-prefects should not take direct initiative in dismantling operations but rather focus on collecting and relaying information to facilitate coordinated interventions.
The mission will also rely on surveillance, early warning, and regular monitoring of actions taken. Sub-prefects are required to provide weekly updates on visited areas, actions taken, reported sites, and results obtained. This initiative follows a meeting of the civil-military cell (CCM), which focused on sensitizing populations to the fight against illegal gold mining. The prefect hopes that this proximity approach will encourage population adhesion and collaboration with authorities.
The prefectural administration will play a crucial role in identifying legal and clandestine mining sites. Authorities will contribute to mapping these sites, while intelligence gathered on the ground will help determine their location and identify individuals involved in their exploitation. The prefect also emphasized the need to prevent the reoccupation of dismantled sites and promote rehabilitation of degraded areas.
To ensure effective execution of the mission, the CDS will hold weekly meetings to monitor progress, evaluate results, and set necessary orientations. The prefect and concerned officials will assess the situation and make adjustments as needed. Actions are planned in several departments and sub-prefectures of the region, including Bondoukou, Sandégué, Tanda, Transua, and Koun-Fao.
The six-month deadline for eradicating illegal gold mining in the Gontougo region is ambitious, but authorities seem determined to succeed. The FDS and prefectural corps will work together to implement the planned actions and contribute to the region's security and environmental protection. The success of this mission will depend on effective collaboration between all stakeholders involved.
The stakes are high, as illegal gold mining can have severe environmental and social consequences. If successful, this initiative could serve as a model for other regions in Côte d'Ivoire facing similar challenges. The prefect's determination and the involvement of local populations will be crucial factors in achieving this goal.
Key points
- The authorities have set a six-month deadline to eradicate illegal gold mining in the Gontougo region.
- The prefectural administration will play a key role in identifying and mapping mining sites.
- The success of the mission will depend on effective collaboration between the FDS, prefectural corps, and local populations.
