Ivorian gold production surges

Ivorian gold production has grown more than four times since 2012, driven by new mine openings and expansions of existing sites. The discovery of new gold deposits is expected to further boost this growth.

New exploration permits issued

On Wednesday, October 14, the Council of Ministers approved five exploration permits for gold, granted to four companies. These permits are valid for four years and aim to prepare for increased gold production in the country.

Companies receiving permits

Awalé Resources received two permits, covering areas in Gbéléban, Minignan, and another in Minignan. Etruscan Resources Côte d'Ivoire got a permit in Bondoukou and Tanda, while Smart Mining Group will explore M'Bahiakro and Bouaké. Tietto Minerals Côte d'Ivoire received a permit in Gagnoa and Soubré.

A sixth permit for other metals

A sixth permit, this time for copper and nickel, was granted to Switch Metals Côte d'Ivoire. The government aims to create new exploitation opportunities through these allocations, as part of its goal to become the leading African gold producer by 2035.

Exploration and future reserves

Exploration is crucial to identify new deposits that can support future gold mines. Foreign investors regularly provide capital for these efforts, with Canadian company Awalé investing 8.5 million dollars in a fifteen-month exploration program in Odienné.

Gold production growth

Ivorian gold production has risen from about 13.2 tons in 2012 to 59.33 tons in 2025, with around 62 tons expected this year. This growth is supported by new mines such as Abujar, Yaouré, Séguéla, and Lafigué, as well as discoveries at Assafou and Doropo.

Ivory Coast's ambitious target

Despite the progress, Côte d'Ivoire still has a long way to go to surpass Ghana, the current African leader in gold production. Ghana produced about 186.6 tons in 2025, more than three times the Ivorian output.

Koné mine to drive growth

Before new discoveries from the recent permits, growth will depend heavily on the Koné mine, which is expected to become the largest in the country. Montage Gold began operations in late September, aiming for an annual production of more than 9.3 tons of gold.