Perseus Mining Limited has secured a historic green light to develop Côte d’Ivoire’s first underground gold mine at its Yaouré Gold Mine in central Côte d’Ivoire.
The approval came after President Alassane Ouattara signed a Presidential Decree, authorising the commencement of the CMA underground project.
Perseus CEO and Managing Director, Jeff Quartermaine, described the decree as a landmark development for both the company and the West African nation’s mining sector.
“Receiving the Presidential Decree authorising the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s first underground mine is a major milestone for Perseus.
“This allows us to immediately proceed with the cutting of portals and ultimately gain access to further important ore sources for processing through the Yaouré processing facility.”
Perseus CEO and Managing Director, Jeff Quartermaine,
Regulatory Approvals Pave the Way
The Presidential Decree follows months of regulatory scrutiny and preparatory work. Earlier this year, in May, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition granted a Ministerial Arrêté after the successful completion of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment.
Backed by the Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy, these approvals were critical pre-requisites before the development phase could begin.
According to Perseus, key infrastructure works associated with the underground mine have already been completed, ensuring a smooth transition into the development phase.
Underground mining specialist Byrnecut has been commissioned to handle the project, with its equipment now in place and ready to begin operations.
The project will involve driving declines beneath the existing CMA Open Pit to access new ore sources. Once fully operational, the underground mine is expected to extend Yaouré’s life until at least 2035, based on current mineral resources and ore reserves.
Mr. Quartermaine stressed that although the authorisation was received later than initially anticipated, the delay allowed the company to better prepare for a seamless launch.
“While receipt of the formal authorisation comes later than originally planned, the delay has allowed us time to complete all infrastructure works required to support the operation.
“Also, it has ensured that Byrnecut’s underground equipment is available and commissioned ready for immediate commencement of mining operations.”
Perseus CEO and Managing Director, Jeff Quartermaine,
Investment and Economic Impact
The CMA underground development represents a US$170 million investment by Perseus Mining, underscoring its long-term commitment to Côte d’Ivoire.
The project not only strengthens the company’s asset portfolio but also reinforces its partnership with the Ivorian government.
“This investment marks a new phase in our partnership with the Government of Côte d’Ivoire in expanding its thriving mining industry.”
Perseus CEO and Managing Director, Jeff Quartermaine,
Perseus has set out a clear roadmap for the CMA underground mine’s operational rollout. The driving of declines begins immediately, with first ore production targeted for January 2026.
Full commercial production is scheduled for March 2027, marking a major step in solidifying Yaouré’s position as a cornerstone of Perseus’s West African operations.
Strengthening Perseus’s Regional Footprint
Perseus Mining already operates three gold mines across West Africa: Edikan in Ghana, Sissingué in Côte d’Ivoire, and Yaouré, which will soon host the country’s first underground operation.
The CMA project consolidates Perseus’s reputation as a key player in the region’s mining landscape, where it has built a track record of responsible and profitable operations.
For Côte d’Ivoire, the development signals a new chapter in the evolution of its mining industry, traditionally dominated by open-pit operations. By embracing underground mining, the country not only diversifies its mining capabilities but also strengthens its role as a leading gold producer in Africa.
As development kicks off, the success of the CMA underground mine will be closely watched across Africa’s mining sector.
With robust government support, significant capital investment, and a clear production timeline, Perseus appears well-positioned to deliver on its promise.
For Mr. Quartermaine, the project represents both a technical achievement and a long-term strategic opportunity.
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