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Sanbrado Gold Mine
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The Sanbrado Gold Mine is a high-grade gold mining operation located in the Ganzourgou Province, approximately 170 kilometers southeast of Ouagadougou. Operated by the Australian company West African Resources, the mine achieved its first gold pour in March 2020, ahead of schedule and under budget. The project consists of both open-pit and underground mining operations, targeting several high-grade deposits including M1 South. Sanbrado is one of the lowest-cost gold producers in the region, with an initial mine life estimated at over 10 years and annual production exceeding 200,000 ounces. Gold is Burkina Faso's leading export commodity, and mines like Sanbrado contribute significantly to the national GDP through royalties, taxes, and local employment. The company implements comprehensive social and environmental programs, focusing on community health, education, and water infrastructure in the surrounding villages.
- Location: Burkina Faso
- Nearby: Zorgho (34 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 27 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 29 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 28 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 2 | 4 | 38 | 69 | 97 | 173 | 236 | 156 | 49 | 1 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Sanbrado Gold Mine is a modern large-scale project in central Burkina Faso, one of the newest mining operations in the country. It plays a crucial role in national gold production and fosters regional economic development through employment and infrastructure.
Visiting
The mine is an active industrial site and is generally not open to the public. Outside the security fence, however, visitors can observe the facilities, haul trucks, and waste rock dumps from a safe distance along the access road.
Where to view it
A suitable viewpoint is a gentle rise along the access road from Mogtédo, offering an overview of the main mine site. From there, the open pit, processing plant, and waste dumps are clearly visible.
Local products
Gold is the dominant economic product in the mine region, though it is not sold directly to visitors. Local markets in Kourwéogo province offer agricultural goods such as millet, maize, groundnuts, and dried vegetables, as well as handmade jewelry.
Active season
The mine operates year-round with 24-hour shifts, and extraction intensity remains largely steady. Traditionally, the drier months from November to April are more favorable for transport and logistics, while the rainy season (May-October) may occasionally cause disruptions.
Nearby
A visit to Sanbrado Mine can be combined with a trip to the town of Mogtédo and the traditional Sabce kingdom. Additionally, an excursion to Arly National Park in the east provides a great complement for experiencing Burkina Faso's nature and wildlife.
Geography
Facts
- Commercial production officially started in March 2020.
- Operated by the Australian firm West African Resources.
- Annual gold production is targeted at 220,000 ounces.
- Mine life is estimated to be at least 14 years.
- Contains high-grade underground reserves of approximately 10g/t.
- Royalties and taxes exceed 50 million USD annually.
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Sights in the town Sanbrado Gold Mine (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Sanbrado Gold Mine located?
About 110 km southeast of the capital Ouagadougou.
Is the mine open to visitors?
No, for security reasons, access is strictly controlled.
Who operates the mine?
The mine is primarily operated by West African Resources.
How much gold is produced?
It is one of the most productive gold mines in the country.
Are there jobs for locals there?
Yes, it is a significant employer in the region.
Sanbrado Gold Mine: where is it located?
Sanbrado Gold Mine is located in Burkina Faso.
Sanbrado Gold Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Sanbrado Gold Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Sanbrado Gold Mine is a high-grade gold mining operation located in the Ganzourgou Province, approximately 170 kilometers southeast of Ouagadougou.
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