Mauritania’s gold mining sector is demonstrating significant dynamism, marked by a strong rebound in production, ongoing major industrial operations, burgeoning exploration activities, and concerted efforts to formalize the vital artisanal mining segment. As a key contributor to the national economy, the gold sector presents considerable opportunities for investment and partnership.
Production Surge and Geological Promise:
After a temporary dip, Mauritania’s gold production saw a remarkable recovery, surging to 19,300 kg (approximately 620,800 ounces) in 2022, a substantial increase from 8,100 kg in 2021. This performance approaches the country’s recent peak production of 19,725 kg recorded in 2020.
The 2022 output was driven primarily by industrial operations, contributing 16 tonnes, largely due to the resumption of full activities at the Tasiast mine following a temporary shutdown. Alongside this, the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector remained significant, contributing over 2 tonnes.
While official national gold reserves figures are not widely published, Mauritania possesses significant geological potential, particularly in its southern regions. Exploration projects, such as MMG’s 500 sq km license area, are strategically located near world-class deposits in neighbouring Mali, including the Sadiola Gold Mine (14 Moz reserves) and within the influence of the highly prospective Senegal-Mali Shear Zone, host to giants like Loulo (11.5 Moz) and Yatela (3.5 Moz). This geological context strongly suggests the potential for discovering large-scale gold deposits within Mauritania.
Key Developments and Investment Highlights
Tasiast Mine (TMLSA): Operated by Tasiast Mauritanie Limited S.A. (TMLSA), a subsidiary of Kinross Gold, the Tasiast mine remains the cornerstone of Mauritania’s industrial gold production. Its successful return to full operation in 2022 was pivotal for the sector’s overall performance, and ongoing optimization and potential expansion activities continue to underscore its importance.
MMG Southern Mauritania Project: This promising venture holds exploration rights for gold, copper, and base metals within a geologically favourable area. The license terms (3-year initial exploration, renewable twice; 30-year mining license, renewable) provide long-term security for development. Its proximity to established infrastructure in Mali enhances its operational prospects.
Artisanal Sector Formalization (MAADEN): Recognizing the economic importance and challenges of ASGM, the Mauritanian government, through the agency MAADEN, is actively working to formalize and regulate the sector. This includes establishing new processing facilities and drafting legislation aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and environmental management within ASGM operations, which provide crucial livelihoods for many Mauritanians.
Towards Safer Practices: Initiatives are underway to improve environmental and health standards in the ASGM sector. Partnerships, such as those involving Pact and Magma Group, are piloting mercury-free processing methods, aligning the sector with international best practices and reducing environmental risks.
The mining sector, propelled significantly by gold alongside iron ore, is a powerhouse for the Mauritanian economy. In 2022, it accounted for:
24% of the national GDP (up from 18% in 2021)
30% of government revenues
Key contributors include TMLSA, the state iron ore company SNIM, and Mauritanian Copper Mines, highlighting the sector’s fiscal importance.
Outlook: Growth and Sustainability:
Mauritania is focused on sustainably expanding its mining sector. Addressing the environmental and health challenges associated with ASGM through regulation (like the 2022 draft law) and promoting cleaner technologies are key priorities.
With rising global demand for gold, significant untapped geological potential, major industrial operations like Tasiast, promising new exploration projects like MMG’s, and dedicated efforts to improve the ASGM sector, Mauritania’s gold mining industry is well-positioned for continued growth and represents a compelling area for investment.
Key Data Snapshot:
Aspect Detail 2022 Gold Production 19,300 kg (approx. 620,800 oz) – Industrial 16 tonnes (TMLSA dominant) – Artisanal (ASGM) 2+ tonnes Peak Production 19,725 kg (2020) Mining Share of GDP 24% (2022) Mining Share Revenue 30% (2022) Key Industrial Operator Tasiast Mauritanie Limited S.A. (TMLSA – Kinross) Key Exploration Project MMG Southern Mauritania Project ASGM Management MAADEN (Gov. Agency), Formalization efforts, Mercury-free pilots
- Mauritania invites partners and investors to explore the significant opportunities within its dynamic and expanding gold sector, a cornerstone of the nation’s economic present and future.
