November 2, 2026, 4:56 pm
OUAGADOUGOU: Burkina Faso has inaugurated its first gold refinery as the military-led government seeks to strengthen control over the country’s natural resources and increase economic sovereignty.
Gold is one of Burkina Faso’s most important sources of revenue, and authorities have increasingly emphasized domestic processing and greater state involvement in the mining sector.
The new refinery is being presented as part of efforts to retain more value from the country’s gold production inside Burkina Faso rather than exporting raw material.
The move comes amid broader economic and political changes in the West African country, which has sought to reduce its dependence on traditional foreign partners.
The government says greater control over natural resources will help support national development and economic independence.
