Mali has taken a significant step towards modernizing its mining sector by signing two agreements with Russian company ZarubezhGeologia on October 28, 2026, in Moscow. The agreements were signed on the sidelines of the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit, which was held under the theme "For Peace, Security, and Development." The deals aim to enhance Mali's sovereignty over its natural resources.
The first agreement focuses on creating a national mining map at a scale of 1/200,000 to identify areas with high mineral potential and suitable spaces for prospecting and investment. This will enable Mali to pinpoint essential zones and establish "promotion zones," according to Minister of Mines Amadou Keita. The map will help the country to better understand its geological resources.
The second agreement involves setting up a national geological information system to centralize, conserve, and facilitate the exploitation of data on Mali's subsurface. This project aims to strengthen national technical capacities and improve mineral resource management. The system will help Mali to make informed decisions about its mining sector.
As part of these agreements, agents from the National Directorate of Geology and Mines have received training on interpreting satellite images applied to geology. This training will enable them to effectively utilize the new technologies and tools provided by the agreements. The training is a crucial aspect of capacity building in the mining sector.
Minister Amadou Keita also participated in a panel discussion on reforms in the mining sector, including the 2023 Mining Code and local content. He highlighted the state's 30% participation and local investors' 5% participation in mining activities, aimed at increasing national benefits from mining. The minister emphasized Mali's commitment to maximizing returns from its natural resources.
The minister reaffirmed Mali's commitment to strengthening its sovereignty over natural resources while reassuring partners about respecting engagements and securing investments. He mentioned the presence of Russian investors, including Rosatom, which is engaged in a lithium project. Mali is keen to attract investment while ensuring that its resources are managed sustainably.
Through these agreements and ongoing reforms, Mali aims to improve its understanding of its subsurface, modernize mining governance, and increase national participation in valorizing its resources while maintaining cooperation with international partners. The country is taking a proactive approach to managing its mining sector and maximizing its benefits.
Key points
- Mali signs two agreements with ZarubezhGeologia to modernize its mining sector.
- The agreements focus on creating a national mining map and a geological information system.
- The reforms aim to strengthen Mali's sovereignty over its natural resources and increase national benefits from mining.
