In a significant move highlighting deepening relations between Burkina Faso and Russia, the Burkinabè government has granted a new gold mining permit to Russian mining giant Nordgold. The decision, announced following a Council of Ministers meeting, allows Nordgold to operate the Yimiougou gold deposit located in the commune of Korsimoro, within the Sanmatenga province.
The permit, issued for an initial period of four years, is expected to yield approximately 2.53 tonnes of gold over its lifespan. This project forms part of Burkina Faso’s broader strategy to maximize the economic benefits derived from its rich mineral resources. According to government estimates, the mining activities at Yimiougou will contribute around 5.36 billion CFA francs (approximately $8.57 million) to the national budget and an additional 648 million CFA francs (about $1.03 million) to the country's Local Development Mining Fund.
The award of the permit comes at a time when Burkina Faso is seeking to diversify its international partnerships, moving closer to non-Western allies like Russia. Analysts view this development as part of a larger geopolitical shift in the Sahel region, where nations like Burkina Faso are increasingly strengthening economic and security ties with Russia.
Responding to concerns about the nationality of Nordgold and whether the permit was politically motivated, Burkina Faso’s Mines Minister Simon-Pierre Boussim firmly rejected such suggestions. “We do not give permits to people because they are from Russia, or from the United States," he stated. "We give permits to companies that pay taxes and respect our laws." The Minister emphasized that Nordgold was awarded the permit based purely on its compliance with Burkina Faso’s legal and fiscal regulations.
Nordgold, a well-established player in Burkina Faso’s mining sector, has operated in the country for several years, managing other significant mines such as Bissa and Bouly.
The broader context of this deal reflects Burkina Faso’s recent efforts to reclaim greater control over its mineral wealth. The country has been actively reviewing its mining code to secure better returns from the mining industry, which forms a vital part of its economy. Gold, in particular, is Burkina Faso’s most important export commodity, accounting for over 70% of its total exports.
International observers note that Russia's growing influence in the region is not limited to mining. In recent years, Burkina Faso and several other Sahel countries have sought closer military and economic cooperation with Moscow, distancing themselves from traditional Western partners.
As the Yimiougou project advances, both Burkina Faso and Nordgold are expected to benefit significantly from the collaboration. For Burkina Faso, the revenues generated will contribute to public investments and local development projects. For Nordgold, the expansion of its footprint in one of Africa’s most gold-rich nations represents a valuable commercial opportunity.
This mining agreement thus symbolizes not only economic cooperation but also a shift in global alliances that could reshape the future of the Sahel region.
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