Mali Greenlights Underground Expansion at Fekola Gold Mine

Mali’s mining sector is set for a production surge following government approval for underground operations at the Fekola Gold Mine, operated by Canadian firm B2Gold Corp. The move marks a strategic shift from surface mining to underground extraction, unlocking deeper ore bodies and extending the mine’s lifespan.

According to B2Gold, the underground phase will:

• Add 10 years to the mine’s operational life
• Boost gold output by 25% over the next three years
• Create more than 600 new jobs, with a focus on local employment and training

The approval comes amid rising global gold prices and increased investor interest in West African gold assets. Mali’s Ministry of Mines has pledged to fast-track permitting and support infrastructure development around the site, including road upgrades and power supply stabilization.

Fekola has been one of Mali’s top-performing gold assets since its launch, and the underground expansion is expected to solidify its role in the country’s export earnings and fiscal stability.