Global gold demand reached a record 1,231 tonnes in the first quarter of 2026, valued at around $193 billion.
Côte d’Ivoire is emerging as a key beneficiary. Its Koné gold project is expected to produce more than 300,000 ounces a year and create around 3,000 jobs.
Meanwhile, Mali, Burkina Faso and Ghana are increasing state control over their gold industries as governments push for a bigger share of mining revenues.
The challenge is turning the region’s gold wealth into jobs, infrastructure and long-term economic growth.
Côte d’Ivoire Feels Fuel Price Pressure
Higher global oil prices are also hitting Côte d’Ivoire, with petrol rising to 905 CFA francs per litre and diesel to 725 CFA francs from August 1.
Transport-dependent businesses, including restaurants and delivery services, are already feeling the pressure as operating costs rise.
Kenya’s SMEs Struggle for Funding
In Kenya, around seven in 10 SMEs struggle to access finance, limiting their ability to expand and create jobs.
Businesses such as SevenTwenty Holdings show what affordable funding can achieve. The manufacturer has grown from a small start-up into a company employing more than 60 people.
Industry groups are calling for better financing conditions, including interest rates below 10%, to help more SMEs grow.
Across West and East Africa, access to capital, infrastructure and affordable energy remain crucial to unlocking stronger economic growth.
Main Image: Mining.com
