Illegal Gold Mining Prompts Cameroon to Tighten Mining Sector Oversight

YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon (CNA) Cameroon is stepping up efforts to curb illegal gold mining and strengthen oversight of its mining industry after authorities revoked dozens of exploration permits and unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at ensuring the country’s mineral wealth generates greater economic benefits.
The government announced the measures on Wednesday during a joint press conference in Yaoundé, where Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi and Minister of Mines, Industry and Technological Development Prof. Fuh Calistus Gentry outlined plans to combat illegal mining while accelerating strategic mining projects across the country.
The announcement follows the recent revocation of 53 gold exploration permits held by more than 30 companies for violating the Mining Code, including failure to meet statutory obligations and breaches of permit conditions.
Officials said flagship projects at Bipindi Grand-Zambi, Kribi-Lobé, Minim-Martap, Bidzar, Biou Sud and Colomine remain on track, but warned that illegal artisanal and semi-mechanized gold mining continues to deprive the State of revenue while causing environmental damage and operating outside the legal framework.
The government said the reforms are designed to restore State control over strategic mineral resources, strengthen environmental protection, improve compliance with mining regulations and ensure that mining revenues benefit Cameroonians through increased public revenue, formal employment and local development.
Authorities also reiterated their goal of positioning Cameroon as a leading African producer of critical minerals and rare earth elements, describing the mining sector as a cornerstone of the National Development Strategy 2020–2030 and a key driver of industrialization, economic growth and the country’s energy transition.