Illegal Gold Mining in Sud-Comoé: 103 Sites Identified, Communities Urged to Remain Vigilant

On October 16, 2026, Sud-Comoé Prefect Ibrahima Cissé brought together community representatives from Ayamé, Bianouan and Yaou for a second awareness meeting on illegal gold mining. The region has 103 identified sites; three—in Aboulié, Diby and Maféré—were occupied by illegal miners, representing 2.91% of the sites. Authorities warned that mining threatens farmland, forests and waterways, as well as residents’ health, food resources and household incomes. Participants recommended a rapid alert system, closer cooperation between communities and authorities, and stronger coordination in border areas.