Côte d’Ivoire Issues 11 New Mining Permits to Accelerate Exploration

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – October 3, 2025 – Côte d’Ivoire has approved 11 new mining exploration permits for gold, cobalt, and copper, reinforcing its ambition to position itself as one of West Africa’s most attractive mining destinations.

The announcement was made by government spokesperson Amadou Coulibaly following a cabinet meeting this week. The permits, valid for four years, were granted to a mix of local and international operators, underscoring the country’s strategy to attract investment and diversify its economy beyond cocoa.

Gold Leads the Charge

Eight of the permits are dedicated to gold exploration, awarded to companies such as Resolute Exploration Côte d’Ivoire, developer of the Doropo gold mine in the north, and Tieto Minéral, operator of the Abujar gold mine near Abidjan.

Three additional permits cover exploration for chrome, manganese, nickel, cobalt, and copper, signaling Côte d’Ivoire’s intent to broaden its mineral portfolio.

Production on the Rise

Gold output in Côte d’Ivoire has climbed sharply—from 10 tonnes in 2012 to 58 tonnes in 2024—and is projected to reach 62 tonnes in 2025, according to Mines Minister Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly. The government has set an ambitious target of 100 tonnes annually by 2030, driven by new projects such as Endeavour Mining’s Lafigué mine.

The mining sector now contributes 4% of GDP, up from 1.5% a decade ago, and hasattracted billions in foreign investment, according to the Professional Group of Miners of Côte d’Ivoire.

Unlocking Untapped Potential

Major international players including Barrick Gold, Perseus Mining, Roxgold, and Fortuna Mining are already active in the country. The latest permits, Coulibaly noted, reflect a deliberate strategy to unlock untapped mineral wealth and consolidate Côte d’Ivoire’s reputation as a stable, investor-friendly hub for mining in West Africa.