World
Mali holds third-largest gold reserves in Africa amid political turmoil
Mali, with an estimated 800 tonnes of gold reserves, ranks third in Africa, but its mining sector suffers from security and political instability since 2012. Despite producing about 100 tonnes of gold in 2024, smuggling and underreported artisanal output distort official figures. The country also holds significant lithium, uranium and other mineral deposits, though exploration remains hampered by unrest.