In a bid to combat illegal gold mining, the first vice-president of the Marahoué Regional Council, Sacko Lassina, has called on the local population to preserve their land and avoid selling it to unauthorized miners. He made this appeal on September 18, 2026, in Tibéita, Bouaflé department, during a mission by the Departmental Committee to Fight Against Illegal Gold Mining.
Lassina emphasized the importance of protecting the region's land resources and environment from the activities of clandestine miners. He noted that the income generated from selling land to these miners is insignificant compared to the gains from lawful mining activities. Furthermore, he highlighted the environmental consequences of using mercury and other products in illegal gold mining.
The vice-president encouraged young people interested in mining to form cooperatives and operate within the law. He assured them that the regional council is willing to support them in this endeavor. Souleymane Sanogo, the regional director of Mines and Geology, presented an overview of the situation regarding illegal gold mining in Marahoué, revealing that 14 sites have been identified.
Sanogo discussed the risks associated with illegal gold mining and outlined the procedures for obtaining a mining authorization. He advised young people interested in gold mining to opt for legal channels, such as forming cooperatives. The Departmental Committee to Fight Against Illegal Gold Mining, led by Prefect Gonbagui Gueu Georges, aims to effectively implement government directives to eradicate this phenomenon within six months.
The mission to Tibéita is part of a broader effort to strengthen the fight against illegal gold mining in the Marahoué region. Local authorities are working to educate residents about the dangers of unauthorized mining and to provide alternatives for those interested in the sector. The committee's efforts are focused on ensuring that mining activities in the region are conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner.
According to Sanogo, the region faces significant challenges due to the presence of illegal miners, including environmental degradation and risks to public health. The authorities are committed to addressing these issues through a combination of enforcement and support for legal mining activities. The goal is to create a safer and more sustainable environment for both miners and local communities.
The campaign against illegal gold mining in Marahoué is ongoing, with local authorities urging residents to report any suspicious activities. By working together, the authorities aim to protect the region's natural resources and promote sustainable development. Key stakeholders, including miners, local leaders, and government officials, are collaborating to find solutions that benefit everyone involved.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire authorities are working to combat illegal gold mining in the Marahoué region.
- Local residents are being urged to protect their land and avoid selling it to unauthorized miners.
- The authorities aim to eradicate illegal gold mining in the region within six months.
