Côte d'Ivoire: Discovery of one of the world's largest gold deposits

A major discovery in the north-west of Côte d'Ivoire promises to reshape the country's economic future. With a gold deposit estimated at 155.5 tonnes, the "Koné project" could propel the West African nation into the ranks of the continent's major gold producers, while attracting foreign investment and generating thousands of jobs. This windfall comes at just the right time for a country seeking to diversify its economy, which is still largely dependent on cocoa.

Located in the departments of Kani and Dianra, the deposit, discovered by Montage Gold, has a grade of 0.72g of gold per tonne and a projected annual production capacity of 11 million tonnes over 20 years. The site, potentially one of the largest in West Africa, is located in a geologically rich region, alongside deposits in Burkina Faso and Guinea. "This discovery makes Côte d'Ivoire even more attractive to investors, and could encourage other mining companies to explore the country," a sector expert told our editorial team.

Beyond its size, the Koné project represents a strategic turning point. It consolidates the role of the mining sector in Côte d'Ivoire's economy, which is already enriched by oil and gas reserves, and paves the way for long-awaited diversification.

The economic benefits of the project are promising. It is estimated that the exploitation of the deposit could generate around 4,500 direct and indirect jobs, offering a breath of fresh air to a region where unemployment remains a major challenge. Taxes and royalties from the operation will also contribute to the state coffers, providing leeway to fund infrastructure, education and health projects.

Local communities should also benefit from this dynamic. Roads, schools and health centres could be built thanks to mining revenues, improving living conditions in a hitherto underdeveloped area. "This is a unique opportunity to transform the region, provided that the benefits are properly redistributed," stresses a local official.

Despite this optimism, exploitation of the Koné deposit will not be without obstacles. Securing the site is an absolute priority, in a region where the risks of looting or insecurity could compromise the project. Building an ore processing plant will require massive investment in infrastructure, posing major logistical challenges.

The authorities will also have to ensure transparent and sustainable management. Compliance with environmental standards will be crucial in limiting the impact on biodiversity, while constant dialogue with local communities will avoid potential tensions. "Successful exploitation requires rigorous planning and a fair share of the wealth," insists an industry analyst.

Historically dependent on its agricultural exports, Côte d'Ivoire sees this deposit as an opportunity to reduce its vulnerability to the vagaries of world markets. By diversifying its sources of income, the country could not only strengthen its resilience in the face of economic crises, but also stimulate innovation and training in strategic sectors.

This transformation is taking place against a backdrop of global uncertainty, making diversification all the more crucial. Ultimately, Côte d'Ivoire could become a key player in the African gold market, competing with its neighbours while consolidating its economic stability.

Côte d'Ivoire is at a crossroads as preparations intensify for the exploitation of the Koné field. If the logistical, security and environmental challenges are overcome, this discovery could mark the start of a new era, combining economic prosperity with inclusive development. It remains to be seen what strategies the government will adopt to transform this raw wealth into a sustainable lever for the country and its citizens.