Africa remains one of the world’s top gold-producing regions, with several countries making significant contributions in 2024. From large-scale industrial mines to informal artisanal operations, gold continues to play a vital role in African economies.
Here’s an updated look at where gold is found in Africa in 2024, key producers, new discoveries, and emerging trends.
1. Top Gold-Producing Countries in Africa (2024)
The following countries lead in gold production across the continent:
| Country | Estimated Annual Output (Tonnes) | Key Mines & Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Ghana | ~150 tonnes | AngloGold Ashanti, Gold Fields, IAMGOLD |
| South Africa | ~80 tonnes | Harmony Gold, Sibanye-Stillwater |
| Mali | ~70 tonnes | Randgold Resources (Barrick), B2Gold |
| Tanzania | ~60 tonnes | Barrick Gold (Acacia), Shanta Gold |
| Burkina Faso | ~40 tonnes | IAMGOLD, Nordgold, Teranga (now part of Kinross) |
Other notable contributors include Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
2. Major Gold Belts – Where Gold Is Found
Most of Africa’s gold occurs in well-defined geological zones:
- Witwatersrand Basin (South Africa): The richest gold field in the world.
- Birimian Greenstone Belt (West Africa): Runs through Ghana, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast.
- Tanzanian Craton (East Africa): Hosts major gold mines in Tanzania.
- Central African Belt (DRC and Sudan): Contains both alluvial and lode deposits.
New exploration projects are expanding into previously underdeveloped areas, especially in East Africa and the Sahel region.
3. New Gold Discoveries in 2024
Several companies announced promising gold finds this year:
- Savka Mining discovered new high-grade zones in Ethiopia
- Resolute Mining expanded resources in Mali
- Mano River Resources made progress in Guinea
- AngloGold Ashanti confirmed extensions at its Obuasi mine (Ghana)
These discoveries suggest that Africa still holds vast untapped potential for future gold production.
4. Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) – A Growing Sector
Artisanal mining accounts for up to 30% of Africa’s total gold output in 2024. It supports millions of livelihoods in countries like:
- DRC
- Uganda
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Sudan
While ASM provides income for many, it also faces challenges such as environmental degradation, unsafe working conditions, and illegal trading.
5. Challenges and Opportunities in 2024
| Challenge | Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Rising operational costs | New exploration and investment |
| Political instability in some regions | Regional cooperation (e.g., EAC, ECOWAS) |
| Environmental concerns | Adoption of cleaner mining practices |
| Illegal mining and smuggling | Formalization programs and digital tracking |
| Currency fluctuations | Gold-backed financial instruments and ETFs |
In 2024, efforts to formalize and regulate the sector continue to grow, supported by international organizations and national governments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which African country produces the most gold in 2024?
A: Ghana leads gold production in Africa, followed closely by South Africa and Mali.
Q: Is new gold being discovered in Africa in 2024?
A: Yes, exploration companies have made several new discoveries in Ethiopia, Mali, Guinea, and West Africa.
Q: How much gold does Africa produce annually?
A: In 2024, Africa produces approximately 700–800 tonnes of gold per year — about 20% of global output.
Final Thoughts
Gold in Africa remains a powerful economic driver in 2024, with strong production levels, ongoing discoveries, and growing investment interest. While challenges remain, the continent continues to be a key player in the global gold industry.
With improved governance, sustainable practices, and continued exploration, Africa’s gold sector looks set for long-term growth.
