Mali Launches Special Mines Brigade to Crack Down on Illegal Gold Mining

Malian authorities have unveiled a Special Mines Brigade to strengthen oversight of the country’s gold sector, combat illegal mining, and secure mining areas.

The transitional government approved the creation of the brigade during a Council of Ministers meeting on Wednesday. The unit will operate nationwide, with judicial police powers, to monitor gold mining sites, report offences, and enforce mining regulations.

Officials said the decision comes amid a surge in illegal gold extraction, mineral trafficking, and the use of prohibited chemicals in certain areas, which pose significant environmental and safety risks. Frequent accidents at artisanal mining sites and security challenges linked to gold panning also prompted the establishment of the brigade.

The task force will play a central role in implementing control and enforcement measures in the mining sector, including identifying violations of mining laws, supporting judicial investigations, and safeguarding mining sites.

Mali remains one of Africa’s largest gold producers, with annual output generally ranging between 60 and 70 tonnes, and exceeding 100 tonnes in some years, according to the Ministry of Mines. Gold accounts for more than 70% of the country’s exports and contributes roughly 8–10% of gross domestic product.

The creation of the Special Mines Brigade forms part of broader reforms in recent years, including the adoption of a new Mining Code in 2023. The code aims to boost the sector’s contribution to the national economy, strengthen local content requirements, and enhance regulatory oversight of mining activities.