Commencement of Mining Operations: All Set for First Exports in 2025

Professor FUH CALISTUS GENTRY was able to see for himself that the mining phase has effectively begun. With the open-pit mine now completed, efforts are currently focused on ore storage, with approximately 600,000 tonnes already stockpiled. The target is to accumulate 7 million tonnes of ore before the processing phase begins.
In this regard, it is worth noting that two processing units are currently under construction. The first, referred to as the pilot phase, is expected to process and enrich one million tonnes of iron concentrate. The second, larger unit is designed to process two million tonnes of iron concentrate annually.
During his inspection of the available ore, storage facility, crushing unit, and processing unit, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made. This, he noted, is proof that Cameroon is resolutely a mining-producing country. Far from being a slogan, it is a tangible reality.
Related infrastructure, such as the construction of the base camp and the secondary road linking the site to the Kribi Deep Sea Port, is nearing completion.
It should be noted that the iron reserve at Bipindi Grand-Zambi is estimated at approximately 150 million tonnes, with an iron content ranging from 25% to 45%. Preliminary treatment will increase the grade to 65% prior to export.
In light of this, the Minister is undertaking a working visit to the South Region, specifically to the Ocean Division, from 26 to 29 April 2025. The objective of the visit is to take full stock of the progress of major mining projects in the area, as well as the challenges encountered.