Ninety-three (93) new artisanal gold exploration sites have been identified across the wilayas (provinces) of Tamanrasset, In Guezzam, and Tindouf, according to State Minister and Minister of Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energies, Mohamed Arkab. He made this announcement during a plenary session dedicated to oral questions at the National People’s Assembly (APN) on Thursday.
“All studies and measures related to these sites are in the process of being finalized so they can be proposed for new exploitation permits as soon as all necessary technical and regulatory conditions are met,” Arkab stated, as reported by the Algerian Press Service (APS).
He further noted that the exploration would continue for new gold deposits in the wilayas of Tamanrasset, Djanet, Tindouf, Adrar, In Guezzam, and Bordj Badji Mokhtar. Additionally, the exploration extends to semi-precious stones like Beryl, Topaz, Corundum, Piezo Quartz, and Garnet in the Hoggar regions of Tamanrasset, Djanet, In Guezzam, and Bordj Badji Mokhtar.
Since 2021, the sector has implemented a new strategy aimed at strengthening artisanal gold mining while eliminating illegal exploitation. This has been achieved through the issuance of artisanal gold mining permits and by providing training for micro-enterprises. Mining police engineers ensure compliance with technical, hygiene, safety standards, and exploitation conditions. The National Agency for Mining Activities (ANAM) has granted 222 artisanal mining permits since the operation began, with 21 in In Guezzam alone.
The gold ore extracted by authorized small businesses is transported to the counters of the Gold Mines Exploitation Company (ENOR), particularly to the Amesmessa plant in Tamanrasset for processing and separation. Arkab emphasized that artisanal gold mining is a priority for the sector due to its significant role in sustainable development in southern wilayas, its contribution to economic development, and job creation, especially for the youth.
