Senegalese Army Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Gold Mining

The Senegalese army has recently launched Operation Kéniéba, a military effort aimed at curbing illegal gold mining activities in the Falémé region, near the border with Gabon. This operation is part of a broader strategy to enhance security and regulate artisanal gold exploitation in the area. On November 13, 2026, the first intervention under this operation led to the dismantling of an illegal mining site in the Tomoroadji sector, north of Moussala.

During the initial intervention, military forces seized 20 engines used for crushing and separating ore, nine motor pumps, 21 water reservoirs, and various other equipment used by illegal miners. This action is part of a series of operations conducted by Senegalese defense and security forces against illegal gold mining in the southeastern part of the country. Several sites have been dismantled in the departments of Saraya and Kédougou in recent months, with equipment seized and individuals involved in these activities apprehended.

The operation comes as a response to growing concerns over the environmental impact of uncontrolled gold mining. The use of extraction equipment and chemicals, as well as water withdrawals, poses significant risks of pollution and degradation of riverine ecosystems in the Falémé basin. In addition to addressing security issues, Senegalese authorities are working to organize artisanal gold mining activities. On November 3, 2026, the Ministries of Armed Forces and Mines and Geology signed a two-year partnership agreement to develop, demarcate, and secure seven gold mining corridors in the Kédougou and Tambacounda regions.

The agreement, signed by Ministers Yankoba Diémé and Cheikh Oumar Seck, involves the military engineering corps in the development of selected sites. Three pilot corridors are to be established in the Kédougou region as a priority. This cooperation aims to better manage an activity that is a significant source of income for local populations while minimizing its impact on security, the environment, and natural resource management. The new Operation Kéniéba represents the operational aspect of a strategy that combines military presence at borders, combating illegal exploitation networks, and progressive organization of artisanal gold mining.

The Senegalese authorities' efforts to tackle illegal gold mining reflect a comprehensive approach that addresses both security and environmental concerns. The operations have been conducted in coordination with the Gendarmerie nationale, highlighting the collaboration between different security agencies in addressing the issue. The series of interventions demonstrates the government's commitment to enforcing regulations and mitigating the adverse effects of uncontrolled mining activities.

As the situation in the Falémé region continues to evolve, the Senegalese military and security forces remain engaged in operations to secure the area and prevent further illegal mining activities. The partnership between the Ministries of Armed Forces and Mines and Geology is expected to play a crucial role in organizing artisanal gold mining and reducing the risks associated with illegal exploitation. The outcomes of these efforts will be closely watched by local communities and environmental stakeholders.

The ongoing operations against illegal gold mining in Senegal underscore the challenges faced by countries in managing natural resources while ensuring security and environmental protection. The situation in the Falémé region highlights the need for effective regulation and enforcement of mining activities to prevent environmental degradation and promote sustainable development. As Senegal moves forward with its strategy to organize artisanal gold mining, the international community will be monitoring the country's progress in addressing these critical issues.

Key points

• The Senegalese army's Operation Kéniéba aims to combat illegal gold mining in the Falémé region, following a series of interventions in recent months.
• The operation is part of a broader strategy to enhance security and regulate artisanal gold exploitation in the area.
• The efforts reflect a comprehensive approach addressing both security and environmental concerns related to illegal gold mining.