Africa's Share of Global Gold Production: ~22.5% (2021)

As of **2021**, Africa accounted for approximately **22.5% of worldwide gold mine production**, making it the **second-largest gold-producing region** after the Asia-Pacific region (which includes China, the world's #1 producer).

Key African Producers (2021 approx.):

• **Ghana** (~130 tonnes) — Africa's top producer, ~6th globally.
• **South Africa** (~100 tonnes) — Historic giant; declining output due to depth/cost.
• **Sudan** (~90 tonnes) — Artisanal/small-scale dominant.
• **Mali** (~70 tonnes)
• **Burkina Faso** (~60 tonnes)
• **DRC, Tanzania, Guinea, Zimbabwe, Ivory Coast** — significant contributors.

Context: Africa's share has grown from ~15% in 2000 due to new discoveries (West African Birimian greenstone belt), investment, and South Africa's decline. However, **artisanal/small-scale mining (ASM)** contributes a large, often underreported portion, suggesting the true share may be higher.