Endeavour’s Assafou Gold Project in Côte d’Ivoire
Endeavour Mining, one of West Africa's leading gold producers, plans to bring its Assafou gold project in Côte d’Ivoire into production by the end of 2028. This ambitious project is expected to significantly boost the country’s contribution to Endeavour’s overall gold output.
Endeavour's West African Operations
Currently, Endeavour operates five mines in West Africa: Houndé and Mana in Burkina Faso, Sabodala-Massawa in Senegal, and Ity and Lafigué in Côte d’Ivoire. In 2025, the Ity and Lafigué mines are projected to produce up to 540,000 ounces of gold, accounting for 45% of the company’s total output of 1.2 million ounces.
Assafou’s Role in the Future
The Assafou project, set to begin construction in 2026, is a crucial part of Endeavour's future growth. It will be the company’s third mine in Côte d’Ivoire, following the Lafigué project, which entered production in late 2024. A feasibility study released in 2024 forecasts Assafou’s annual gold production to reach 329,000 ounces during its first decade.
Geographic Concentration and Risks
The Assafou mine will heighten Endeavour’s dependence on Côte d’Ivoire, which may increase risks associated with geographic concentration. This expansion coincides with potential reforms in the Ivorian mining sector, which could add an element of uncertainty to the project’s timeline and economic impact.
"Endeavour plans to bring its Assafou gold project in Côte d’Ivoire into production by the end of 2028."
Construction of Assafou will proceed once the necessary permits are granted by Ivorian authorities. If successful, it will become the company’s second new mine in Côte d’Ivoire in the last four years, highlighting the region’s growing importance to Endeavour’s portfolio.
Conclusion
Endeavour's investment in Côte d’Ivoire with the Assafou project demonstrates the company’s strong commitment to the region, which will significantly bolster its output and strategic positioning in West Africa.
"Assafou’s projected production will contribute an estimated 329,000 ounces of gold annually during its first decade."
Author's Summary: Endeavour’s Assafou project in Côte d’Ivoire is set to enhance the company’s gold output and solidify its presence in West Africa, despite potential risks from geographic concentration and sector reforms.