By: Ecofin agency

Africa’s mining landscape is enriched by a new major gold mining operation. The Lafigué mine , located in the north of the country, near the town of Mbengué , was officially launched on October 19. This inauguration marks an important step in the economic development of the region and strengthens the country’s position on the global gold market.

The deposit, discovered in 2017, is operated by the Canadian company Endeavour Mining. After years of preparation and investment, the first gold pour was made in July 2024, marking the effective start of operations. The Lafigué mine stands out for its promising prospects. With an estimated lifespan of 13 years, it is expected to produce approximately 5 tonnes of gold per year. The production cost, estimated at between $900 and $975 per ounce, positions it competitively on the international market.

This new operation is part of a growth dynamic in the national mining sector. Before Lafigué , two other mines, Abujar and Séguéla , were commissioned in 2023, demonstrating the country's growing attractiveness for investors in the sector. The impact of Lafigué on the national economy is notable. The country's gold production could reach 55 tonnes in 2024, compared to 50 tonnes the previous year. This increase is in line with the government's ambition to double the mining sector's contribution to GDP, aiming to increase from 3% to 6%.