Since late 2021, the Russian Wagner Group, led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, has shown a keen interest in Mali’s abundant gold resources.
They have pursued various avenues, including obtaining mining permits, establishing local companies, engaging in artisanal gold panning, and trafficking gold through Dubai.
Russian mercenaries have even set up mining companies in Mali and sought support from the Malian business sector to secure mining licenses.
Their focus on gold has intensified following the start of the war in Ukraine.
Mali’s gold reserves, which trace back to the legendary wealth of Mansa Musa in the 14th century, continue to attract international envy.
Sergueï Laktionov, a Russian geologist, arrived in Bamako in July 2021 to assess Mali’s gold potential.
He had previously worked for Wagner’s mining interests in the Central African Republic.
Laktionov and his team have been negotiating with Mali’s junta for the deployment of mercenaries to protect the gold mines, aiming to be paid directly from the source.
Wagner has established two mining companies in Mali, Alpha Development and Marko Mining, with the assistance of local intermediaries.
The junta’s close ties to Colonel Sadio Camara and the influence of former mining minister Lamine Seydou Traoré have played a significant role in these partnerships.
However, the Malian authorities have been cautious in granting operating licenses and have launched an audit of the mining sector.
While awaiting full access to the mines, Wagner has engaged in artisanal gold panning and taken over several sites in southern Mali.
Gold trafficking through Dubai has also been facilitated by collaborating with local traders like Kossa Dansoko.
The extraction of gold from Mali is often shrouded in illicit practices, with corruption and smuggling prevalent.
Wagner’s activities in Mali serve multiple purposes, including financing their military efforts in Ukraine and replenishing Russian treasury reserves.
However, the junta remains cautious about granting full control of the gold mines to Wagner as they seek to assert their sovereignty and avoid excessive Russian influence.
The situation in Mali’s mining sector remains complex, with ongoing negotiations and tensions between Wagner and the Malian authorities.
While Wagner continues its pursuit of gold in Mali, concerns are raised regarding the transparency and legality of their operations in the country.
With information from the Africa report
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