Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Water and Forests, Jacques Assahoré, has called on his collaborators to strengthen their engagement in the fight against illegal gold mining and water pollution. This appeal was made on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in Bouaké, following a meeting to analyze recommendations from the National Security Council (CNS). The meeting aimed to assess the CNS's recommendations and provide guidance to Water and Forests agents.
According to Minister Assahoré, the primary goal is to make the role of the Water and Forests ministry in combating illegal gold mining perceptible within the next six months. He emphasized that the ministry's agents must work closely with prefects, who are responsible for coordinating the fight against illegal gold mining. The minister highlighted that illegal gold mining is a significant source of water pollution in Côte d'Ivoire.
The minister identified the Special Surveillance and Intervention Brigade (BSSI) and the Forest Police Directorate as key forces supporting operations against illegal gold mining. These structures have been involved in the fight for several years, but the minister stressed the need to enhance their engagement and intervention capacity. He announced plans to reinforce logistical means to support forces deployed in the field.
Minister Assahoré explained that the meeting was crucial in giving directions to Water and Forests agents, enabling them to play a more significant role in the new dispositif. He emphasized that agents must be available to prefects to contribute to field operations effectively. The minister's call to action aims to mitigate the impact of illegal gold mining on Côte d'Ivoire's waters and forests.
The fight against illegal gold mining is part of the government's efforts to protect Côte d'Ivoire's natural resources. The CNS has been actively involved in addressing this issue, and the Water and Forests ministry is expected to play a vital role in the new strategy. Minister Assahoré expressed his confidence in the ministry's agents, stating that they are committed to this fight.
The government's decision to reinforce logistical means will likely enhance the effectiveness of operations against illegal gold mining. This move demonstrates the authorities' commitment to addressing the issue and protecting the country's environment. The ministry's efforts will focus on supporting prefects and contributing to field operations.
The meeting in Bouaké marked a significant step in implementing the CNS's recommendations on combating illegal gold mining and protecting water and forest resources. Minister Assahoré's call to action has set clear objectives for the Water and Forests ministry, and the next six months will be crucial in assessing the effectiveness of these efforts.
Key points
- The minister aims to make the Water and Forests ministry's role in combating illegal gold mining perceptible within the next six months.
- The Special Surveillance and Intervention Brigade (BSSI) and the Forest Police Directorate will play a key role in supporting operations against illegal gold mining.
- The government plans to reinforce logistical means to support forces deployed in the field.
