Mali is forecasting a modest recovery in its industrial gold production this year, based on expectations that mining firm Barrick Gold will resume operations following a prolonged standoff with the government.
According to a document from the country’s mines ministry, seen by Reuters on Wednesday, industrial gold output is projected to reach 54.7 metric tonnes in 2025. This follows a significant 23 percent drop in 2024, when production fell to 51.7 tonnes.
The forecast hinges on the assumption that Barrick Gold, a major international mining company, will return to full operations after what the document described as a months-long dispute with Malian authorities.
No further details on the nature of the standoff or the status of negotiations were disclosed in the document.
Gold is a key sector in Mali’s economy, and any improvement in production is likely to be closely watched by both the government and international mining stakeholders. While the country remains one of Africa’s top gold producers, its mining industry has faced disruptions in recent years amid broader political and regulatory challenges.
The Malian government is counting on Barrick’s expected return to help reverse the sharp downturn seen in 2024 and stabilise the sector this year. (Africabriefing)
