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The Southwestern Ethiopian Peoples’ Regional State has delivered 150 kilograms of gold to the National Bank of Ethiopia during the current fiscal year, halving its initial target of 300 kilograms.
Gebremariam Setegn, Director General of the Regional Mining and Energy Development Agency, attributed the shortfall primarily to illegal trade and underperformance by licensed producers.
In response, the region has intensified its regulatory efforts. These measures include issuing new licenses to producers in previously untapped mining areas and establishing a dedicated task force to combat illicit trading activities. Ato Gebremariam also underscored the critical need for cooperation from licensed gold suppliers, traditional gold-producing associations, and specialized small enterprises to ensure all mined gold is deposited with the National Bank.
Despite the setback in gold production, the region reported progress in its coal output. The Agency stated that 168,000 tons of coal have been supplied for industrial use during the current fiscal year.
