Executive Summary

SCOOPS SANEM aims to transform artisanal mining in Burkina Faso into a modern, safe, and environmentally responsible industry. This project introduces advanced technologies to replace traditional methods often associated with danger and pollution. Its goal is to boost productivity while ensuring worker safety, natural resource preservation, and local socio-economic development. Waste treatment systems, water management, and mine site rehabilitation will be implemented to reduce ecological impact. The project also promotes the integration of local miners into a formal regulatory framework, facilitating access to financing, training, and international markets. SCOOPS SANEM represents a key opportunity to sustainably modernize Burkina Faso’s mining sector while supporting inclusive and responsible economic growth. SCOOPS SANEM seeks a $7 million investment to modernize artisanal mining in Burkina Faso. The transaction involves equity financing, with investors acquiring 40% of the company. Funds will be used for technology upgrades, community development, and environmental sustainability initiatives. A 10-yea The executive team of SCOOPS SANEM is composed of experienced professionals from the mining, technical, financial, and community development sectors. Their diverse expertise ensures a comprehensive and effective approach to modernizing artisanal mining while integrating sustainability and technological innovation. SAWADOGO P. Souleymane , with over 5 years of experience in the mining sector, has led several major artisanal mining projects in West Africa, focusing on sustainable development and local integration. His strategic vision and leadership, oriented toward innovation and collaboration, guide SCOOPS SANEM toward its ambitious goals. Sophie Traore , Chief Operations Officer, is a specialist in mining operations with a Master’s degree in Mineral Resource Management obtained in Germany. She has supervised large-scale mining operations, particularly in improving operational efficiency and safety. She plays a key role in implementing modern practices such as mechanization and automation. ILBOUDO Omer , Sustainability Officer, holds a Master’s degree in Project Management and brings solid experience in ecological management. He has worked on mine site restoration and environmental impact reduction projects. He ensures that all project actions comply with international standards such as ISO 14001. Kader Diawara , Chief Financial Officer, is an expert in budget management and fundraising. His role is essential in ensuring the project's economic viability, particularly through mobilizing local and international investments. TAPSOBA Gabriel , Technical Director, specializes in mechanical engineering and advanced mining technologies. He oversees the integration of digital solutions such as IoT and artificial intelligence into extraction processes. KABORE Inoussa , Community Relations Officer, has extensive experience in engaging local stakeholders. He ensures coordination between communities and the project to maximize positive social impacts. Thanks to this multidisciplinary team, SCOOPS SANEM has the necessary skills to sustainably transform the artisanal mining sector in Burkina Faso. The SCOOPS SANEM project aims to modernize artisanal mining in Burkina Faso with a focus on economic, social, and environmental sustainability. With a total budget of $7 million , the initiative focuses on adopting modern technologies, training local actors, reducing mining risks, and responsibly managing natural resources. Funds will be allocated as follows: 35% ($2.45M) for acquiring mechanized equipment and modern tools to replace inefficient and dangerous manual methods; 25% ($1.75M) for technical training and awareness programs for artisanal miners on best practices in extraction, safety, and environmental management; 15% ($1.05M) for setting up waste treatment systems and protecting soil and groundwater; 10% ($0.7M) for local infrastructure development (site access, renewable energy, logistics); 10% ($0.7M) for monitoring, evaluation, and project governance; 5% ($0.35M) for administrative and legal costs related to formalizing the artisanal mining sector. In terms of economic returns, the project is expected to generate over $2 million in annual revenue starting in the third year of operations, driven by increased productivity and improved mineral quality. Local value addition through on-site processing will further maximize benefits before export. From a social perspective, SCOOPS SANEM aims to integrate more than 1,000 artisanal miners into a secure regulatory framework, providing them with training, equipment, and access to certified markets. This will help reduce illegal mining while improving living conditions in local communities. Environmentally, planned actions ensure responsible resource extraction, with systematic rehabilitation of mining sites after use. The use of clean energy and low-pollution technologies reinforces this sustainable commitment. With an estimated timeline of 5 to 7 years to reach full maturity, the project offers a progressive but secure return on investment , combining economic profitability, positive social impact, and environmental protection. Through this integrated approach, SCOOPS SANEM positions itself as a key initiative to sustainably transform the artisanal mining sector in Burkina Faso. The artisanal mining sector in Burkina Faso plays a major role in the national economy, employing over 500,000 people . However, traditional methods remain inefficient, dangerous, and often polluting. The SCOOPS SANEM project aims to modernize this sector, making it sustainable, inclusive, and competitive on both regional and international markets. Burkina Faso is a key gold producer in West Africa. Artisanal mining accounts for about 20% of mineral exports , but remains largely informal. Global demand for responsibly sourced minerals is rising, driven by international regulations and growing consumer awareness. SCOOPS SANEM responds to this trend by offering a regulated, modern, and environmentally responsible mining supply chain. Transitioning to mechanized practices could increase productivity by up to 300% , reduce labor costs, and improve miner safety. By integrating technologies such as IoT and artificial intelligence, the project also enhances resource management and traceability of extracted materials. Government support through formalization strategies provides a favorable environment for the initiative. In addition, international investors are increasingly interested in sustainable projects that combine profitability with positive social impact. However, several challenges remain: local resistance to change, regulatory complexities, lack of technical skills, and environmental risks. To address these, SCOOPS SANEM plans continuous training, active community involvement, and strict ecological management measures (waste treatment, mine site restoration). With a unique positioning based on innovation, sustainability, and social inclusion, SCOOPS SANEM stands out in a fragmented and underdeveloped market. Its model can be expanded to other mining areas in Burkina Faso and even to other West African countries. In short, with its comprehensive vision and concrete actions, SCOOPS SANEM emerges as a key initiative to sustainably transform the artisanal mining sector in Burkina Faso while meeting global market expectations.