Mali’s government has launched a major military operation to combat illegal gold mining along the Niger River, aiming to protect one of West Africa’s most vital water sources from severe environmental degradation. The operation, codenamed “Djoliba Saniya”, ran from July 21 to 23, during which troops from the National Guard’s TAMA tactical group destroyed 206 artisanal dredges and six industrial mills in key gold-producing zones southwest of the capital—Bancoumana, Hamdallaye, Kangaba, Balanza, and Danga.
The use of mercury and other toxic chemicals in unauthorized gold extraction has contaminated the river, threatening aquatic biodiversity, public health, and urban water supplies—especially in Bamako, where the Niger River is the main source of drinking water. Despite reforms, over 60% of Mali’s gold output, an estimated 60 tons annually, comes from informal or illegal artisanal mining, which continues largely unchecked across the country.
The government now plans to extend the clampdown to other regions, including Sikasso, while also reviewing economic alternatives for small-scale miners who depend on informal gold panning to survive. Officials say the crackdown will continue until all unauthorized mining equipment is eliminated, balancing environmental protection with the economic needs of affected communities.
