Assessment of mining potential for the establishment of a gold panning corridor in the Loulo area (Western Mali): An effective environmental management tool

Mali's mining potential has been well documented by previous studies conducted by the government and mining companies. In addition to industrial mining, the study area is subject to a considerable influx of artisanal gold miners. This study aims to propose solutions for regulating artisanal gold mining in Mali’s mining areas.  The methodology involved conducting a survey, geotechnical studies, and inverse circulation drilling (IRC) in the rural commune of Sitakily/Loulo. This research revealed the discovery of significant gold deposits exploited by artisanal miners in Sadiola, Yaléa, Segala, Tabakoto, Loulo, Gounkoto, and Fekola. Furthermore, upon receiving the drilling results, a sorting of the levels yielding grades greater than or equal to 0.2 g/t was carried out. These results have demonstrated the full mineral wealth of the area under study in western Mali. Furthermore, these deposits are currently the primary source of mass migration to mining sites and the establishment of makeshift camps around the villages of Satkili, Loulo, Gounkoto, and Fekola. To better optimize artisanal gold mining and ensure effective environmental management, Mali must create designated gold mining corridors.