Three good reasons to believe in a positive year in 2026
Between assessments and New Year’s resolutions, the transition from one year to the next unfolds through flashbacks, but above all through hopes for a new year that will be far better than the one drawing to a close. Without attempting to read the tea leaves, certain signals already make it possible to glimpse the trends for 2026. It will probably not be the best year for Mali, but there is nevertheless reason to believe it will be a good one.
1. Energy-sector projects reaching maturity
In the third issue (January 2024) of your magazine POINT FOCUS, we announced a number of projects and investments in the energy sector. Feasibility studies for the construction of the Bagoé and Baoulé hydroelectric power plants, as well as solar power projects and the Botéguékourou wind farm, have now reached maturity. The multi-year financing plans included in the State budget give reason to believe that some of these projects will come into operation before the end of 2026, which would provide significant relief in terms of energy supply.
2. The impact of reforms in Mali’s mining sector is becoming apparent
The Local Content Law and the 2023 Mining Code took time before all their implementing regulations were adopted. In 2026, the five mining funds, the Permanent Secretariat for Local Content, and the Special Mining Brigade will become operational. Projections from the Ministry of Finance, which forecast the mining sector’s contribution at 25% of GDP, will begin to materialise.
3. Stronger gold and lithium production in Mali
The surge in gold prices, which saw a sharp increase in 2025, is expected to continue in 2026. Unlike recent years, lithium prices are also expected to rise slightly and stabilise at USD 850 per tonne of spodumene concentrate, compared with USD 800 in 2025. These forecasts should see Mali increase its gold production with the completion of the transition to underground mining at Fekola and possibly the finalisation of at least two major gold mining projects. The start of production at the Bougouni Lithium Mines (LMLB SA) will enable Mali to increase its lithium output by 200,000 tonnes.
