Ivory Coast is expected to achieve record gold output this year, largely due to the Lafigue mine’s commencement and investments in other projects. Gold production is projected to rise from 58 metric tons in 2024 to 62 metric tons this year. Industry official Jean-Claude Diplo expressed confidence that the nation will soon exceed the gold output of Mali and Burkina Faso, potentially reaching Ghana’s levels by 2030.
Ivory Coast’s gold output is anticipated to reach unprecedented levels this year, primarily due to production from the newly inaugurated Lafigue mine, as noted by industry official Jean-Claude Diplo. In its efforts to diversify income sources, the nation, renowned as the world’s largest cocoa producer, aims to revamp its previously underdeveloped mining sector.
The Lafigue mine, situated approximately 500 kilometers north of the commercial hub Abidjan and managed by London-listed Endeavour Mining, is projected to yield between 180,000 and 210,000 ounces of gold in 2025. Diplo mentioned that gold production in Cote d’Ivoire is set to escalate to 62 metric tons this year, an increase from 58 tons in 2024.
Diplo emphasized that the anticipated growth is tied to the Lafigue gold mine reaching full production capacity, as well as significant investments in other major mining projects. He expressed confidence that Ivory Coast’s gold output has been on a steady rise and could soon surpass that of neighboring countries Mali and Burkina Faso, eventually aiming to match Ghana’s production levels.
“We have the potential to go very fast… If we are disciplined, as we are today, we will be on par with Ghana in 2030, according to our projections,” stated Diplo. Notably, Barrick Gold, Perseus Mining, and Roxgold are among the mining companies actively operating within Cote d’Ivoire’s burgeoning sector.
In conclusion, Ivory Coast is on track to achieve record gold production in the coming year, fueled by the Lafigue mine’s contributions and planned investments in the mining sector. The nation’s leadership envisions surpassing its neighboring countries in gold output while working towards matching Ghana’s production levels by 2030. This strategic shift underscores Ivory Coast’s commitment to diversifying its economy beyond cocoa production, reflecting its potential for rapid growth in mining operations.
Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh
