West Africa faces crisis from illegal gold mining surge

Illegal gold mining is creating significant economic and environmental challenges across sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Côte d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso. The surge in global gold prices—rising from $1,524 per ounce in 2020 to an estimated $5,590 in January 2026—has intensified the rush for unregulated extraction.

In Côte d'Ivoire, the illegal mining workforce is largely composed of foreigners, with estimates suggesting that between 70% and 95% of miners are from other West African nations, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea. This phenomenon is driven by a combination of high international demand and local poverty.

In Burkina Faso, clandestine mining serves as a vital but dangerous livelihood for thousands. The practice has led to severe environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water contamination caused by the use of chemicals like mercury. Authorities face the complex challenge of regulating the sector to mitigate health and safety risks while addressing the economic needs of the population.