29
May
Ethiopia had ambitious plans to generate $363 million from gold mining over the past nine months. However, only 67 percent of this target has been met. The Ministry of Mines identifies illegal gold trading as the primary obstacle, despite efforts by the Defense Command Post and the National Intelligence and Security Service to curb it. Illegal trading, smuggling, and security issues have significantly hindered the industry. Only three tons of gold have reached the National Bank in the past nine months, which is just 50 percent of the planned amount. In March, the National Bank received a mere 350 kg…