Mali Grants B2Gold Major Gold Mining Permit

BAMAKO, Mali — Mali has granted Canadian mining company B2Gold an exploitation permit for the Menankoto project, marking a major development for the country's gold industry and investment outlook.

The Menankoto permit forms part of Fekola Regional, located about 20 kilometres from B2Gold’s Fekola Mine. Under the agreed ownership structure, B2Gold will hold 65% of Fekola Regional while the Malian state will hold 35%.

The project is expected to become an important source of future gold production. B2Gold says Fekola Regional is expected to ramp up through the end of 2027 and produce more than 150,000 ounces annually from 2028 through the mid-2030s.

The permit comes as high global gold prices are attracting renewed investor attention to West African mining, while governments and mining companies increasingly focus on taxation, infrastructure and regulatory arrangements.

For Mali, the project could generate additional mining revenues, investment and economic activity while strengthening the country's position as a major African gold producer.

The Menankoto development will therefore be closely watched by investors, mining companies and businesses supplying Mali’s expanding resource sector.