On September 27, 2026, the prefect of Côte d'Ivoire's Sud-Comoé region, Ibrahima Cissé, led a delegation to Tiapoum to engage local populations on issues of concern. The visit aimed to strengthen ties between the prefectural administration and residents, promoting dialogue and collaboration on matters of public interest. Cissé emphasized the need for collective action against illegal activities.
The focus of Cissé's message was the urgent need to end illegal gold mining, known as "orpaillage illégal" in French, in the region. He encouraged residents to fully support the national campaign, "Tous déterminés et engagés contre l’orpaillage illégal" (All determined and committed against illegal gold mining). The prefect warned that those persisting in this activity would face sanctions as per the regulations.
Cissé highlighted the adverse effects of illegal gold mining on both the population and the environment. He stressed that it was crucial to stop this activity now, rather than later, to mitigate its negative impacts. The prefect's statements were made in the presence of administrative authorities, elected officials, traditional leaders, and community leaders.
In addition to addressing illegal gold mining, Cissé discussed the importance of reaffirming the border markers between Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana. He recalled a recent cooperative operation between the two countries in Freetown, Ghana, and Dibi, Côte d'Ivoire, aimed at securing their shared border. Cissé urged both Ivoirian and Ghanaian populations to preserve their historical ties of peace and fraternity.
The prefectural delegation's visit to Tiapoum included courtesy visits to traditional, Christian, and Muslim communities, as well as a meeting with the queen mother, Mme Fatim Sylla. These interactions underscored the administration's commitment to engaging with diverse stakeholders and addressing their concerns.
The sensitization tour is part of broader efforts to enhance governance and promote sustainable development in the Sud-Comoé region. By engaging directly with local populations, the prefectural administration seeks to foster a culture of compliance with laws and regulations, particularly regarding environmental protection and public order.
The call to end illegal gold mining in Tiapoum reflects the Ivoirian government's resolve to tackle this issue through a combination of awareness-raising and enforcement measures. As the prefect emphasized, collective action is essential to achieving this goal and ensuring the region's long-term sustainability.
Key points
- The prefect of Sud-Comoé region, Ibrahima Cissé, has launched a call to action against illegal gold mining in Tiapoum.
- The national campaign "Tous déterminés et engagés contre l’orpaillage illégal" aims to engage residents in efforts to combat illegal gold mining.
- The prefectural administration's sensitization tour seeks to strengthen collaboration with local populations and address concerns related to illegal activities and border security.
