Endeavour Boosts Its Côte d’Ivoire Portfolio with Assafou Project
Endeavour Mining Endeavour Mining plc, 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, according to its latest operational report.
Expanding West African Footprint
The company operates exclusively in West Africa, managing five active mines: Houndé and Mana in Burkina Faso, Sabodala-Massawa in Senegal, and Ity and Lafigué in Côte d’Ivoire. Lafigué began production in late 2024, marking a significant expansion of operations within the region.
Together, Ity and Lafigué are projected to produce up to 540,000 ounces of gold in 2025, which would represent roughly 45% of Endeavour’s expected total of 1.2 million ounces for that year.
Assafou: The Next Strategic Phase
Construction of the Assafou mine is scheduled to begin in 2026, pending approval from Ivorian authorities. Once operational, Assafou will become the company’s third mine in Côte d’Ivoire and its second new site developed in the country within four years.
“Endeavour’s West African mines underline Côte d’Ivoire’s growing importance as a cornerstone of regional gold production,” the report noted.
Outlook and Production Estimates
According to a 2024 feasibility study, Assafou is expected to produce approximately 329,000 ounces of gold annually during its first decade of operation. The $734 million investment highlights both the opportunity and risk associated with Endeavour’s geographical concentration as regional reforms continue to evolve.
Economic Significance
Ivorian mines could contribute up to 65% of Endeavour’s total gold output by 2025, reinforcing the nation’s role as a vital component in the company’s long-term West African strategy.
Author’s Summary
Côte d’Ivoire is cementing its position as a hub for Endeavour Mining’s West African operations, with the Assafou project promising to significantly enhance national gold output and economic influence.