Mali: gold and mining giants, the State imposes its rules [Business Africa]

In this edition of Business Africawe explore the dynamic evolution of the mining sector in Mali, where the government is implementing bold reforms to strengthen its sovereignty over gold resources and rebalance relations with multinationals. We are also exploring Tanzania, which is launching a national study to strengthen its share in the mining industry and encourage local processing. Finally, we discover the boom in real estate in Zimbabwe, where investors, faced with economic instability, see this sector as a safe haven to protect their assets.

Mali tightens its control over gold: standoff between the State and mining giants

Mali, one of the largest gold producers in Africa, is currently in the midst of a radical transformation of its mining sector. The Malian government is intensifying its efforts to recover between 300 and 600 billion FCFA in unpaid taxes and dividends, particularly from foreign mining giants, such as Barrick Gold.

The recent arrest of the CEO of Resolute MiningTerence Holohan, in November 2024, symbolizes this desire to strengthen control over the country’s natural resources. Increasing the state’s share in mining projects is part of this strategy, but it also raises concerns among some economists and professionals in the sector.

“The first obvious risk is the reduction in foreign investment. This can discourage investment if the state’s share increases too much. » This warning comes from Kouadio Justin Kouassi, specialist in the extractive sectors. For him, too rapid an increase in the state’s share could harm investor confidence and compromise the stability of the sector.

However, Mali also sees opportunities in this ambitious approach. The economist Boubacar Malal Bâ underlines that “As long as both parties find their interests, they will always find common ground. » He pleads for a review of the agreements, but also for the emergence of “national champions” able to manage the country’s natural resources with greater sovereignty and efficiency.

The Malian government, well committed to a policy of breaking with past practices, displays a clear desire to rethink its relations with the multinationals present on its soil. Building on its natural resources and strategic vision, it seeks to strengthen national control over its key sectors, particularly gold, while attracting new investments in a more equitable and transparent framework.

With gold production supporting the national economy and promising reform projects, the country could well pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable model for its mining sector.

Tanzania’s mining future: target 50% of the territory explored by 2030

Tanzania is embarking on an ambitious exploration of its mineral resources, aiming to map 50% of its territory by 2030 to boost the economy and increase local jobs. With processing facilities in sight, the country wants to add value locally and strengthen the impact of its mining sector. This report by Daniel Kidjo explores this strategic shift, which could well transform Tanzania’s economic future.

Real estate: the new El Dorado in Zimbabwe?

In Zimbabwe, despite inflation and the uncertainty of the local currency, real estate stands out as a pillar for securing and growing investors’ assets. Faced with growing demand and a deficit of two million housing units, prices are soaring, even attracting funds from the diaspora who see this sector as a safe bet.

In this report, Keith Baptist explores the workings of this “brick rush” which is reshaping the Zimbabwean real estate market, between speculation and sustainable opportunities.