Côte d’Ivoire continues to position itself as a key player in the mining sector, with recent exploration permit awards for valuable resources such as gold, nickel and copper. These new initiatives aim to strengthen the national economy, attract foreign investment and promote sustainable development in the mining sector.

Mining Sector Context in Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire has significant mineral resources, including gold, nickel, copper and other minerals. According to the Ministry of Mines and Geology, the country is the world’s leading producer of cocoa, but it also aspires to become a leader in mining. In 2023, gold production reached approximately 40 tonnes, and the government plans to increase this production to 60 tonnes by 2025.

New permit allocations

In March 2025, the Ivorian government announced the allocation of several exploration permits to national and international mining companies. These permits cover strategic areas known for their mining potential. Permits were awarded in the Yamoussoukro, Bouaké and San Pedro regions, which are renowned for their gold and nickel deposits.

Minister of Mines Sangafowa-Coulibaly said at a press conference: “These new permit allocations are a strong sign of our commitment to developing the mining sector in a responsible and sustainable manner. We want to attract investors who share our vision of inclusive economic development.”

The companies benefiting from the new mining permit allocations are:

• ZS Ressources SARL and Schiba Mining SA, which have each been granted a gold exploration permit in the departments of Daoukro (Central-Eastern Côte d’Ivoire) and Touba (Western Côte d’Ivoire).
• Gold Bon Ressources Minières Côte d’Ivoire SARL, which has been granted a nickel and copper exploration permit in the departments of Sipilou and Danané, located in western Côte d’Ivoire.

Economic impact

The allocation of these permits is expected to have a significant impact on the Ivorian economy. Each mining project is estimated to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs. For example, a nickel mining project could create up to 1,500 direct jobs and 3,000 indirect jobs in surrounding communities.

In addition, the government expects that increased mining production will contribute to GDP growth. In 2024, the mining sector represented around 5% of the national GDP, and with these new initiatives, this figure could reach 7% by 2026.

Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility

Côte d’Ivoire is also committed to promoting sustainable mining practices. The government has put in place strict regulations to ensure that companies meet environmental and social standards. The new permit allocations include clauses that require companies to invest in community development projects.

Companies must dedicate a portion of their profits to local initiatives, such as building schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. This is to ensure that local communities benefit directly from the resources extracted from their land.

A New Era of Mining Development

With these new permit allocations, Côte d’Ivoire is preparing to enter a new era of mining development. Experts estimate that the country could become one of Africa’s leading nickel producers by 2030, with a projected production of 100,000 tonnes per year.

In addition, the growing interest of foreign investors in the Ivorian mining sector is a positive sign. In 2023, foreign direct investment in the mining sector reached 1.2 billion USD, and this figure could increase with new government initiatives.

Driving Economic Growth Through Mining

The recent granting of exploration permits for gold, nickel, and copper in Côte d’Ivoire marks an important milestone in the development of the country’s mining sector. With a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, Côte d’Ivoire is positioning itself as a model for other African countries. The economic outlook is promising, and the country could leverage its mineral resources to improve the well-being of its population and boost economic growth.

In short, Côte d’Ivoire is on track to become a leader in the mining sector in Africa, while ensuring that economic development is accompanied by respect for environmental and social standards. The coming years will be crucial to realizing this potential and ensuring a prosperous future for the country and its citizens.