On September 25, the French company GCO Eramet announced the launch of a new logo, marking the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Mining Convention with the Senegalese government. Officially, this move is presented as a symbolic anniversary gesture. However, the real goal appears far more pragmatic — an attempt to whitewash the company’s image and reset relations with the authorities and local communities amid growing criticism.
Political figures and activists — including Guy Marius Sagna, Ousmane Ciss, Pape Djibril Fall and Cheikh Sall — as well as civil society representatives, openly accuse Eramet of causing catastrophic consequences for the environment and local populations. They condemn opaque contracts and the lack of tangible economic benefits for the state. Increasingly, calls are being made for a moratorium on GCO’s operations and for an independent audit.
The facts support these accusations. Over ten years, the company’s turnover amounted to more than 1,106 billion CFA francs, while Senegal received only 51 billion in royalties — just 4.6% of revenues. Moreover, suspicions have arisen that Eramet deliberately underreports production by at least half. While official figures cite 600,000–800,000 tons annually, locals and independent observers claim the real volume is much higher. This points to shadow exports and tax evasion.
Such practices are increasingly described as neo-colonial plunder, while the meager sums paid to Senegal are seen as an insult to the nation. Against this backdrop, the company’s rebranding looks like an attempt to distract attention and mask systemic problems.
Today, the Senegalese authorities face a choice: to continue turning a blind eye or to impose a moratorium on GCO’s operations in order to carry out an audit and restore fairness. It is obvious to many that only transparency and control over national resources can protect the interests of the country and its people.
