The highlights of this ceremony were the installation of the 46 members of the Local Mining Development Committee (CDLM), the unveiling of the plaque, the cutting of the ribbon and the visit of the factory by the authorities including the Grand Chancellor of the National Order, Ally Coulibaly, representing the Vice-President of the Republic, Koné Meyliet Tiémoko, patron of the event.
According to Mr. Coulibaly, the mining sector is recording sustained growth because the new Lafigué gold mine ranks third on the list of approvals but the fourth for newly inaugurated Endeavor mining after the Bouaflé, Séguéla and Lobo sites. He announced the upcoming inauguration of other sites.
The minister stressed that the President of the Republic wants the mining sector to be the second pillar of economic growth in Côte d’Ivoire. He asked the affected populations and those living near the site to work to maintain a climate of peace and help the government fight against the proliferation of illegal gold panning.
For Ally Coulibaly, if the mining sector is experiencing vitality, it is to the credit of the Head of State, “the Mozart of finance” who has created an environment conducive to business and which ensures that investors do not tired of coming to invest in Ivory Coast.
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As for the CEO of the mining company, he indicated that the opening of the Lafigué site demonstrates “important” progress in the development of the group. “This new step taken reflects our desire to strengthen our partnership with Côte d’Ivoire and support the growth of its mining industry,” he said, reassuring that this mine is an inclusive and sustainable project, synonymous with jobs and economic opportunities for host communities.
On behalf of the regional council, the first vice-president, Aïssata Koné, pleaded with company officials to take into account the needs of local communities.
The mining company’s fifth major project, work on the Lafigué mine was launched in 2022 and its first gold ingot was poured in June 2024, 21 months after the work. It has a lifespan of 13 years with an expected total contribution of 380 billion FCFA for the Ivorian State.
Its creation made it possible to generate 1,500 jobs, including 500 direct, and an anticipated annual production of 200,000 ounces of gold by the end of 2025.
Par Le360 Africa (with MAP)
10/21/2024 at 7:26 a.m.
