West Africa continues to cement its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing gold-mining regions. Ghana, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mali have significantly expanded production, attracting both exploration ventures and major global mining companies. Rich greenstone belts, advanced geological mapping, and competitive fiscal policies have turned this region into a global engine for gold supply.
Yet the sector faces serious hurdles. Rising insecurity, particularly in Burkina Faso and Mali, threatens operations. Armed groups frequently target transport corridors, artisanal mining sites, and company convoys, forcing governments to carefully balance investor confidence with on-the-ground security realities.
Despite these challenges, West Africa’s gold-mining story remains compelling. The region’s geology rivals that of the world’s top producers, and investment continues to flow into exploration and production. With improvements in security and infrastructure, West Africa is well-positioned to dominate global gold output over the next decade, shaping the future of the industry and reinforcing its strategic role in the global metals market.
