Mauritania's Golden Horizon
Driving National Growth and Investment in the Mining Sector
Introduction: A Pillar of Mauritania's Economy
The Islamic Republic of Mauritania... relies heavily on its dynamic mining sector... Contributing nearly 19% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and over 76% of total exports in 2023... Within this crucial sector, gold mining has rapidly emerged... national gold production surged to an estimated 620,000 ounces...
Gold Production (2023)
~620,000 oz
From Ancient Trade to Modern Industry: A Rich Mining Heritage
Mauritania's connection to gold stretches back centuries... Following independence, Mauritania strategically focused on harnessing its mineral wealth... engaged with international partners... The commencement of operations at major sites like the Guelb Moghrein copper-gold mine (2006) and the Tasiast Gold Mine (2007) marked significant milestones...
The Current Gold Mining Landscape: Growth and Modernization
Today, Mauritania's gold mining sector is characterized by robust growth... The Tasiast mine, operated by our partner Kinross Gold, achieved record production exceeding 620,000 ounces in 2023... government has taken proactive steps to formalize artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM)... establishing the Maaden agency... sector is embracing technological advancements... efficient processing techniques like heap leaching... automated equipment... advanced water recycling systems...
Flagship Operations: Partnerships Driving Production
Tasiast Gold Mine
Wholly owned by Kinross Gold... "Tasiast 24k" expansion... boosted processing capacity... record production... extending mine life to 2033. Kinross's investment extends to sustainability, with a new 34 MW solar power plant set to provide around 20% of the mine's energy needs.
Guelb Moghrein Mine
Operated by First Quantum Minerals... primarily produces copper but also makes a valuable contribution to gold output (approx. 26,363 ounces in 2023). Its success highlights polymetallic potential.
Guelb Moghrein Gold (2023)
~26,363 oz
These operations, alongside exploration activities by companies like Sahara Star Mining Company, showcase successful international partnerships...
Investment Opportunities: A Welcoming and Transparent Climate
Mauritania offers a compelling proposition... vast, underexplored mineral-rich terrain, including an estimated 780 metric tons of gold potential... government is committed to fostering a favorable investment climate through:
- Attractive Policies
- Transparency (Online Mining Cadastre - MPME)
- Exploration Potential
- Expansion & Downstream Opportunities
Estimated Gold Potential
~780 Metric Tons
Economic Engine: Gold's Contribution to National Development
The gold mining sector is a powerful engine...
- GDP Contribution: Mining sector ~24% in 2022/23.
- Export Earnings: Gold top export in 2023 (Mining total: 76%).
- Job Creation: ~12,000 direct jobs in 2023.
- Government Revenue: ~30% of national budget in 2022.
Direct Mining Jobs (2023)
~12,000
Responsible Development: Addressing Challenges Proactively
Mauritania is committed to ensuring sustainable development... We acknowledge and actively address challenges:
- Infrastructure Needs (Transport, Energy, Water)
- Environmental Protection (Code Law No. 2000-045, EIAs, Water Recycling, Solar)
- Social Responsibility (Local Benefits, Fair Sharing, Community Investment)
- Security Management (ASGM Formalization, Illicit Trade)
Legal Framework and Government Support
Investment is underpinned by a clear legal framework:
- Mining Code (Law No. 2008-011 and amendments)
- Investment Code (Incentives, Free Trade Zone)
- Ministry of Petroleum, Mines and Energy (MPME) - Regulator
The MPME facilitates investment, manages licensing, ensures compliance, and promotes transparency.
