Mali launches National Gold refinery in bold move for economic sovereignty
Bamako, June 16, 2025 – In a historic ceremony attended by government officials and local residents, Malian Transitional President General Assimi Goïta laid the foundation stone for the country’s first gold refinery in Sénou. This strategic infrastructure project, with an annual processing capacity of 200 tons, represents a decisive step in Mali’s efforts to retain more value from its mineral wealth.
The new refinery will enable Mali to process its gold domestically rather than exporting raw materials, addressing a key demand from the National Refoundation Conference.
President Goïta emphasized that this initiative forms part of comprehensive mining sector reforms, including a sector audit, revised mining code with enhanced local content requirements, establishment of state mining company SOREM, and renegotiation of existing contracts.
Beyond economic benefits, the project symbolizes Mali’s determination to break from foreign dependency and assert control over its natural resources.
The refinery is expected to create employment opportunities, improve revenue transparency, and strengthen the country’s position in global gold markets.
This development comes as Mali continues to implement its Refoundation agenda, transforming popular aspirations for economic sovereignty into concrete achievements.
The government projects the refinery will significantly increase domestic value capture from Mali’s gold production, which remains a cornerstone of the national economy.
Neil Camara
