Ivory Coast’s Gold Output Anticipated to Reach Record Levels in 2025

Ivory Coast’s gold production is expected to hit a record high in 2025, driven by the Lafigue mine’s launch. The country aims to diversify its economy away from cocoa, predicting an increase in gold output from 58 to 62 metric tons this year. Industry officials believe growth will exceed neighboring nations and align with Ghana by 2030.

Gold production in Ivory Coast is projected to achieve a record high this year, primarily driven by the contributions from the recently inaugurated Lafigue mine, as stated by Jean-Claude Diplo, a prominent industry official. The country, known as the world’s largest cocoa producer, is making strides to revive its previously underdeveloped mining sector to enhance its economic diversification.

The Lafigue mine, situated approximately 500 kilometers north of Abidjan, is being operated by Endeavour Mining, which is listed in London. It is anticipated that the mine will generate between 180,000 and 210,000 ounces of gold in 2025. Diplo, who has recently concluded his tenure as the head of the GPMCI mining association, noted that gold production in Ivory Coast is set to increase from 58 metric tons in 2024 to 62 metric tons this year.

Diplo remarked in an interview held in Abidjan that, “Growth will come from the Lafigue gold mine, which is about to go into full production.” He highlighted that significant investments in another major mining project will further enhance the country’s gold output. Over recent years, gold production has been on an upward trajectory, with forecasts suggesting that Ivory Coast will soon surpass its neighbors Mali and Burkina Faso in production levels, aiming to equal Ghana’s output by 2030.

“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,” Diplo stated. Prominent mining firms, such as Barrick Gold, Perseus Mining, and Roxgold, are also actively operating within Ivory Coast, contributing to the growth of the sector.

In conclusion, Ivory Coast’s gold output is poised to reach unprecedented heights this year, primarily due to the operationalization of the Lafigue mine. With a concerted effort to invigorate the mining industry, the nation anticipates a significant increase in production, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the West African gold market. The projections indicate a promising future for the sector, especially with the aim to match Ghana’s output by 2030.

Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh