Archived Post
SEMAFO Inc. (TSX, OMX: SMF) is providing an update several weeks after the tragic November 6th, 2019 attack on a company convoy traveling on the public road between Fada N’Gourma and the Boungou mine site in the Est Region of Burkina Faso. The attack, which claimed the lives of 37 people and injured 60 others, has deeply impacted the company, its employees, and the communities surrounding the Boungou operation.
Over the past weeks, SEMAFO’s priority has remained the welfare of victims, their families, and all employees affected by this tragedy. The company continues to work in close collaboration with Burkina Faso authorities, security forces, and humanitarian organizations to provide support, ensure safety, and assess the path forward for its operations in the region.
Company Response and Support Efforts
Immediately following the attack, SEMAFO activated its emergency response plan and mobilized crisis teams both in Burkina Faso and at its corporate headquarters in Montreal. Since then, several actions have been implemented:
-
Family Assistance and Support: Financial assistance, counseling, and logistical support have been provided to the families of the deceased and injured workers. Dedicated liaison teams have remained in continuous contact with the families to ensure ongoing support.
-
Medical and Psychological Care: Survivors of the attack continue to receive medical treatment and trauma counseling. SEMAFO has partnered with local and international organizations to provide long-term psychological assistance to those affected.
-
Security and Operational Review: Comprehensive security assessments have been carried out for all transport routes, mine facilities, and housing locations. The company has suspended road convoys until a full review and enhanced protection strategy are approved by the relevant authorities.
-
Community Relations: SEMAFO has maintained open communication with local communities to reaffirm its commitment to their safety, economic stability, and long-term partnership.
“Our first duty has been to the families who lost loved ones and to those who survived this devastating event,” said Benoit Desormeaux, President and CEO of SEMAFO. “No words can fully express our sorrow or our gratitude for the courage shown by our employees, contractors, and the people of Burkina Faso during this time. We are committed to honoring their memory through meaningful action and improved safety.”
Status of Operations at Boungou Mine
Following the attack, SEMAFO immediately suspended all transport along the Fada–Boungou corridor and temporarily halted operations at the Boungou mine. The site itself has remained secure, and essential personnel have been maintained under strict protection.
The company has since undertaken a complete security re-evaluation in collaboration with the Burkinabe government and international security advisors. Plans to restart operations will depend on the full implementation of reinforced security measures, including new travel logistics and stronger perimeter controls.
At the Mana mine in western Burkina Faso, operations have continued normally, as the region remains stable and unaffected by the events in the east.
Investigation and Cooperation
Burkinabe authorities have launched a formal investigation into the November 6th attack, with support from regional and international partners. While no group has officially claimed responsibility, the government continues to pursue leads in an effort to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
SEMAFO has provided full cooperation to investigators and remains in close contact with local officials to assist in the ongoing inquiry. The company has also participated in regional industry discussions aimed at developing stronger collective security protocols for mining operators in high-risk zones.
Looking Ahead
Mr. Desormeaux emphasized that the company’s commitment to Burkina Faso remains steadfast despite the challenges. “We have operated in the country for more than a decade and built strong relationships with our local workforce and host communities. This tragedy will not diminish our commitment to them—but it will reshape how we operate. We are determined to rebuild trust and ensure that safety always comes first.”
As SEMAFO moves forward, the company continues to balance compassion for those affected with responsibility to protect all future personnel. The lessons from this event are guiding major changes in travel planning, security coordination, and risk management across its operations.
Media Contact
SEMAFO Gold
Investor & Media Relations Department
Phone: +1 (554) 744-4408
Email: info@goldinvestingfirms.com
Website: https://goldinvestingfirms.com