WHAT'S MINE

West Africa: A mining industry on the defensive against the juntas

By Olivier Caslin

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Posted on March 8, 2023 17:18

© FILE PHOTO: A general view of the gold mine site, operated by Endeavour Mining Corporation in Hounde, Burkina Faso February 13, 2020. Picture taken February 13, 2020. Reuters — FILE PHOTO: A general view of the gold mine site, operated by Endeavour Mining Corporation in Hounde, Burkina Faso February 13, 2020. Picture taken February 13, 2020. Reuters

In Guinea, Burkina Faso and Mali, the situation for miners has been mixed following the region’s succession of coups. When faced with the decisions taken by those in charge, the prevailing sense is one of concern.

“The big question is of course Burkina Faso”. When mining companies active in West Africa are asked about the consequences of the coups d’état on the industry, most of their concerns are focused on the former Republic of Upper Volta.

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