Burkina Faso: The country regains control of its resources under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traore
Under the leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso is intensifying its efforts toward achieving true economic sovereignty, particularly through the strategic reclaiming of its mineral resources. A significant illustration of this drive was seen during the Council of Ministers meeting on June 11, 2025, with the adoption of a crucial decree. This decree formalizes the transfer of former mining assets from several companies—Wahgnion Gold SA, SEMAFO Boungou SA, Ressources Ferké SARL, Gryphon Minerals Burkina Faso SARL, and Lilium Mining Services Burkina Faso SARL—to the Société de Participation Minière du Burkina (SOPAMIB), a state-owned body dedicated to the national management of mineral resources.
This operation follows a strategic acquisition completed on August 24, 2024, through which the Burkinabe State obtained the assets of these companies via direct purchase of shares and equity stakes from the Endeavour Mining and Lilium Mining groups. By reclaiming these assets, the State is not only strengthening its control over a key sector but also affirming its determination to break away from a model of economic dependence inherited from decades of foreign exploitation. This marks a major turning point, symbolizing a nation determined to decide for itself how to use its natural wealth.
This initiative is part of the broader policy of sovereign ownership of natural resources launched under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré. Through this approach, the government seeks a fairer and more beneficial exploitation of mineral wealth, with direct impacts expected on local development, sustainable job creation, and the improvement of basic social services. Centralizing management through SOPAMIB also ensures greater transparency and better traceability of mining revenues.
The adoption of the transfer decree complies with Law No. 016-2024/ALT of July 18, 2024, establishing the Burkina Faso Mining Code, which strengthens the State’s rights over underground resources. It reflects the government’s commitment to building a more resilient and independent economy, anchored
