The prefectural corps in Méagui, Côte d'Ivoire, has intensified its fight against illegal gold mining in the region. On November 12, 2026, a delegation led by Prefect Paha Timothée visited Sarakadji, a village in the Gnanmangui sub-prefecture, identified as a hotspot for clandestine gold mining. The visit aimed to enhance awareness and monitoring of previously evacuated sites.
The delegation comprised members of the prefectural corps, defense and security forces, representatives of the Méagui commune mayor, and the president of the CNJCI. They engaged with local populations, including religious leaders, village and community chiefs, women, and youth. Prefect Paha Timothée highlighted the alarming rise of illegal gold mining and its negative consequences.
The prefect expressed gratitude to defense and security forces for their efforts in dismantling several illegal mining sites and preventing their reoccupation. However, he emphasized that sustained collective action and collaboration between administrative authorities, security forces, and local populations are crucial to eradicating the phenomenon. He urged residents to report any attempts to revive clandestine mining activities.
The prefect stressed the importance of citizen responsibility, stating that no form of complicity or support for illegal miners would be tolerated. He encouraged the population to accompany the state's efforts to preserve the gains made in the fight against illegal gold mining. The prefect expressed confidence that with determination and effective involvement from all stakeholders, Méagui can overcome this issue.
The meeting featured interventions from Sous-préfet Adje Agniman Jean and Lieutenant Tuo Wilfrid, president of the Civil-Military Cell. Their contributions underscored the significance of collaboration between administrative authorities, security forces, and communities in preventing and combating clandestine gold mining. The discussions highlighted the need for sustained efforts to address this challenge.
As part of the efforts to combat illegal gold mining, the prefectural corps will continue to monitor and engage with local communities. The authorities aim to prevent the resurgence of clandestine mining activities and promote a safe and secure environment for residents. The fight against illegal gold mining remains a priority for the Côte d'Ivoire government.
The situation in Méagui highlights the broader challenge of illegal gold mining in Côte d'Ivoire. The government faces an uphill task in curbing this phenomenon, which poses significant threats to the environment, public safety, and social cohesion. The outcome of the efforts in Méagui will be closely watched as a test of the country's strategy to tackle this issue.
Key points
- The prefectural corps in Méagui, Côte d'Ivoire, has intensified its fight against illegal gold mining.
- The authorities have engaged with local populations to enhance awareness and monitoring of previously evacuated sites.
- The fight against illegal gold mining remains a priority for the Côte d'Ivoire government.
