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Tongon Gold Mine
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The Tongon Gold Mine is located in northern Ivory Coast, about 55 kilometers south of the border with Mali. Operated by Barrick Gold, it was a symbol of the resurgence of the Ivorian mining sector when it opened in 2010 after years of political instability. The mine is an open-pit operation and uses modern milling and flotation processes for gold extraction. Tongon has significantly contributed to the economic revitalization of the Savanes region by financing infrastructure projects and supporting local suppliers. Although the mine is approaching its planned closure, successful exploration programs in the surrounding area have extended its life multiple times. The mine is also known for its commitment to education, particularly through the construction of schools in the villages of Tongon and Kofiplé.
- Location: Côte d’Ivoire
- Nearby: Mbengue (6 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 | 26 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 8 | 29 | 66 | 96 | 148 | 207 | 261 | 194 | 90 | 12 | 1 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Located in the remote Savanes region, this significant extractive enterprise is a cornerstone of the national mining industry, significantly boosting the northern local economy.
Visiting
Strict security protocols typical for precious metal extraction mean that the operational zones and pits are strictly off-limits to tourists and unauthorized casual visitors.
Where to view it
The colossal scale of the open-pit operations and the monumental mining equipment can sometimes be glimpsed in the distance from certain elevated vantage points on public approach roads.
Local products
While gold is obviously not sold directly to bypassers, the nearby regional hubs boast animated craft markets where general travelers might find locally crafted jewelry or traditional goods.
Active season
Mining activities proceed consistently throughout the calendar year, with the heavy machinery constantly shifting earth regardless of the dry or rainy seasonal cycles.
Nearby
Travelers venturing this far north often pair the journey with cultural immersions in Korhogo to experience authentic Senufo art and traditional artisan villages.
Geography
Facts
- The mine produced around 200,000 ounces of gold in 2022.
- It was originally developed by Randgold Resources.
- The investment volume for construction was over 400 million US dollars.
- Tongon covers a large part of its electricity needs from the national grid.
- More than 90% of the workforce are Ivorian nationals.
- The mine has invested over 10 million US dollars in local community development.
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Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Tongon Goldmine?
A large industrial gold mine in the north of the country.
Visit possibilities?
No, tourist visits are not provided for.
How is the area?
Dry and characterized by agricultural fields.
Best time for the region?
The cooler dry season is most pleasant.
Importance of the mine?
It is a significant economic factor in the north.
Tongon Gold Mine: where is it located?
Tongon Gold Mine is located in Côte d’Ivoire.
Tongon Gold Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Tongon Gold Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Tongon Gold Mine is located in northern Ivory Coast, about 55 kilometers south of the border with Mali.
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