Chad has suspended new mining prospecting authorisations across the country as the government seeks greater control over its mineral sector.
The suspension applies to new applications nationwide. However, authorities have not announced when it will end.
The decision comes as gold plays a growing role in Chad’s economy.
Chad freezes new mining authorisations
Mines, Petroleum and Geology Minister Fatima Haram Acyl announced the decision in a circular dated September 11.
The circular followed a ministerial order signed a day earlier.
Business Insider Africa reported that the measure covers new applications for mining prospecting authorisations across Chad.
However, the government has not provided a detailed explanation for the suspension. It has also not announced how long the measure will remain in place.
Gold grows in importance
Chad has traditionally depended heavily on oil. However, gold has become increasingly important to the country’s export economy.
The World Bank estimates that gold accounted for about 37% of Chad’s goods exports in 2023.
Much of the country’s gold activity comes from artisanal and informal mining.
Meanwhile, Chad was reported to have 324 gold exploitation sites in 2024.
Authorities have also announced plans for four gold-processing plants. The projects aim to increase the amount of value generated from the country’s mineral resources.
Chad reviews its mining sector
The suspension comes as Chad works on changes to its mining framework.
However, authorities have not publicly detailed all the reasons behind the latest decision.
As a result, it is too early to determine how the measure will affect future exploration or investment.
Other African countries have also temporarily restricted new mining rights while reviewing their industries.
Mali, for example, suspended new mining titles in 2022 while overhauling its permitting system. Ghana has also introduced measures aimed at improving the management of mining concessions.
For Chad, the immediate effect is clear: new prospecting authorisations are on hold until further notice.
The longer-term impact will depend on how the government reshapes its mining rules and when it begins accepting new applications again.