Cameroon Targets Over 95% Foreign-Owned Illegal Gold Mines in Crackdown BODY: Bamenda, Cameroon – The Cameroonian government has initiated a significant clampdown on illegal gold mining activities, uncovering nearly 200 unlicensed companies operating primarily in the East and Adamawa regions. Over 95% of these entities are reported to be foreign-owned.
In response to the operation, authorities have mandated the immediate cessation of operations and the dismantling of facilities for all operators lacking valid licenses. This crackdown, which coincides with broader reforms aimed at improving oversight and traceability within Cameroon’s gold sector, is a direct response to the discrepancy between the officially recorded gold exports and the substantial imports reported by foreign nations, notably the UAE.
The discrepancy highlights the scale of illegal mining activities within the country.
The Cameroonian gold sector, which is a critical livelihood for many in the eastern and Adamawa regions, has long been challenged by a lack of regulation and traceability. This situation has been exacerbated by the rapid expansion of informal and semi-mechanized gold operations in recent years, driven by the rise in global gold prices.
The Cameroonian government’s intervention is part of a wider trend across Africa, where countries are increasingly asserting control over their mineral resources and reducing foreign dominance in key extractive industries. This move mirrors similar actions in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Ghana, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, where governments are tightening oversight and controls on illegal extraction and mineral exports.
As Cameroon moves forward with this crackdown, the success of the initiative will hinge on the government’s ability to enforce regulations and prevent the resurgence of illegal mining operations.
The outcome of this operation could set a precedent for other African countries addressing the challenges of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Solomon Ekanem
