Sahel gold boom boosts economies but poses challenges

Subject

Gold mining in the Sahel.

Significance

Gold has become a key export and revenue source for several West African countries, helping to diversify fragile Sahel economies. Alongside industrial mines, artisanal digging is now a major provider of livelihoods but also poses serious health and environmental problems.

Impacts

• Industrial mines will remain a crucial source of formal employment in provincial areas with few salaried jobs outside the public sector.
• The flow of gold exports will alter the geographical balance of West African trade, boosting exports to trading centres such as Switzerland.
• Burkina Faso shows particular investment promise, but rising insecurity, including around mining sites, may deter many firms.