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Rio Tinto's Bold Move: Simandou Iron Ore Project Gets Green Light Rio Tinto's CEO, Jakob Stausholm, revealed to the Financial Times that the company's board has officially approved the ambitious Simandou mining project in West Africa. Stausholm aims to kickstart iron ore production from this colossal $20 billion venture as early as 2025. In a groundbreaking decision, the board has given the nod to what is touted as the world's most extensive mining project, marking a pivotal moment in the company's trajectory. Rio Tinto had previously indicated plans to initiate infrastructure work this year, signalling a determined push forward after nearly three decades of setbacks and controversies. Anticipated to become the globe's largest and highest-grade new iron ore mine, the Simandou project is set to contribute approximately 5% to the world's seaborne supply upon commencement. The venture, a collaborative effort involving Rio Tinto, the Guinean government, and several other entities, including five from China, has navigated through extensive negotiations, legal disputes, political shifts in Guinea, and construction complexities. #miningjobs #energyjobs #infrastructurejobs #projectresourcing #recruitment #collaboration #teamwork #team #corporateculture #concentis #energynews #miningnews #infrastructurenews #recruitmentnews #projectmanagement #projectmanagementjobs #assetmanagement #assetmanagementjobs

Reports out of the West African nation of Guinea suggest that the giant Simandou iron ore development has hit a major milestone in its development with the project’s backers securing approximately $23 billion in financing. The funding will support the co-development of more than 600 kilometres of new multi-use rail together with port facilities that will be used to export iron ore from the Simandou mining concessions in the southeast of the country. The creation of the new multi-use rail together with port facilities was seen as a major stepping stone in bringing Simandou to commercialisation. https://lnkd.in/ezd-KfQw

Rio Tinto ready to build Simandou after almost 30 years of setbacks Rio Tinto said on Tuesday it has all necessary regulatory approvals to resume construction at its vast Simandou iron ore asset, the world’s biggest mining project, which it is co-developing with a Chinese consortium (WCS) in Guinea. Set to be the world’s largest and highest grade new iron ore mine, the project will add around 5% to global seaborne supply when it comes on line. Rio Tinto owns two of the four Simandou mining blocks as part of its Simfer joint venture with China’s Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH) and the government of Guinea. Rio Tinto holds a 53% stake, while CIOH holds the rest. Rio Tinto first secured an exploration license for Simandou in 1997. Since then, the country has experienced two coup d’état, seen four heads of state and undergone three presidential elections. The project involves the construction of a 552km rail line to transport high-grade iron ore from two new mines in the Simandou mountains — one to be built and operated by Rio Tinto — to a new deep water port on Guinea’s Atlantic coast. For additional reading see https://lnkd.in/gDtQPMGp #recruitment #mining #cowaninternational #gateway4opportunity

Key takeaways for the FT article : - World's biggest #mining project to begin after 27 years: Rio Tinto's $20bn Simandou iron ore project in Guinea is finally set to start after numerous setbacks and scandals. - Complex partnership: The project involves #RioTinto, the Guinean government, and several Chinese companies. - High-grade ore for decarbonization: The #iron ore's high quality makes it ideal for low-carbon steelmaking technologies like direct reduced iron. - Potential to help China #decarbonize: The project could significantly reduce #carbonemissions in China's #steelindustry, the world's largest. - First ore expected in 2025: Construction has begun, with first ore shipments planned for 2025 and full production by 2028. - Political uncertainty: Guinea is currently under military rule, but Rio Tinto remains confident due to its long history in the country. Business opportunities: - Infrastructure development: Construction of the railway and port presents opportunities for engineering and logistics companies. - Investment in Guinea: The project could attract further investment in Guinea's infrastructure and economy. Scrutiny for ESG compliance: - Environmental impact: The project's environmental impact, including #deforestation and #biodiversity loss, needs careful monitoring and mitigation. - Social impact: The project's impact on #localcommunities, including resettlement and labor practices, requires close scrutiny and responsible management. - Corruption prevention: Robust anti-corruption measures are necessary to ensure transparency and #ethicalconduct throughout the project. - Human rights: Respect for human rights, including #laborrights and community rights, must be upheld throughout the project's lifecycle. https://lnkd.in/gjQzuDg9

Unlocking Africa's Potential: The Launch of the World's Biggest Mining Project After 27 years of anticipation, setbacks, and challenges, the world's largest mining project is finally set to commence in a remote corner of West Africa. Rio Tinto's $20 billion iron ore, rail, and port development in the Simandou mountains of Guinea represents a landmark moment for the continent's mining industry. Despite facing political instability, legal battles, and corporate rivalries over the years, Rio Tinto, alongside the Guinean government and several other companies, including partners from China, has persevered in bringing this ambitious project to fruition. The complex partnership structure demonstrates a new era of collaborative development, reflecting the growing importance of ingenuity and capital-intensive projects in the mining sector. The high-grade ore extracted from Simandou holds immense potential for decarbonizing the steel industry, particularly in China, the world's largest producer of steel. With its exceptional iron content, the ore is well-suited for processes like direct reduced iron technology, crucial for reducing carbon emissions in steelmaking. At Afrique Monitor, we recognize the significance of such transformative projects for Africa's economic development. As advocates for sustainable growth and innovation across the continent, we celebrate the launch of the Simandou project and its potential to propel Africa's mining sector into a new era of prosperity. #Mining #AfricaDevelopment #Innovation #AfriqueMonitor Read more: [World’s biggest mining project to start after 27 years of setbacks and scandals](https://lnkd.in/gjQzuDg9)

Abu Dhabi's most valuable company, International Holding Company (ADX:IHC), through its unit International Resources Holding (IRH), is making strategic moves to establish a significant presence in the African copper mining sector. With a recent purchase of a 51% stake in Mopani Copper Mines for $1.1 billion, IHC is now setting its sights on acquiring a majority stake in Konkola Copper Mines from Vedanta Resources. This ambitious bid aims to secure over 50% ownership, indicating IHC's intent to build a substantial copper empire in Africa. This move is part of a broader strategy by nations like the UAE to diversify their economic interests into essential minerals critical for the global transition to green energy. This is particularly pertinent as the world shifts towards renewable resources, where copper plays a crucial role due to its extensive use in electrical components. For Vedanta, this offer comes at a time when the company is looking to revitalize these assets after regaining control following a protracted legal dispute with the Zambian government. The potential sale to IRH could provide the necessary capital injection to rejuvenate these operations, which have faced significant challenges, including disputes and operational halts. This development is a critical watch point for stakeholders in the mining and metals industry, reflecting the growing influence of Middle Eastern investments in African mineral resources, and could reshape regional mining dynamics significantly. With the ambitious acquisition goals of Abu Dhabi's International Holding Company (IHC) aimed at expanding into Zambia's copper mining sector, the involvement of companies like Soil Solutions could significantly enhance operational efficiencies and environmental management. Soil Solutions could provide expert solutions in dust control and soil stabilization, crucial for minimizing environmental impact and enhancing the safety and efficiency of the mining operations at places like the Konkola and Mopani copper mines. Their specialised treatments for haul roads can reduce airborne particles, which are a significant concern in mining operations, potentially leading to reduced water usage and maintenance costs. Additionally, Soil Solutions' expertise in creating durable, weather-resistant surfaces (including tailings structure facilities) would be invaluable in managing the challenging infrastructure needs of large-scale mining operations, ensuring that roads and surfaces remain functional throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions. This could not only streamline operations but also align with broader environmental and sustainability goals, which are increasingly important in the global mining industry. #miningindustry #waterconservation #environmentfriendly #dustcontrol #soilstabilization #roadinfrastructure #roadconstruction #costeffective #sustainabilitygoals #weatherresistant #dustfree #maintenancefree #coppermining #greenenergy #greenmining

Southern Copper to restart development of Peru mine on Monday "Peruvian copper producer Southern Copper, controlled by Grupo Mexico, plans on Monday to restart development of the long-postponed Tia Maria project, according to an internal document seen by Reuters. The Tia Maria mine, in the Islay province of Peru’s Arequipa region, has been on hold for years amid community opposition over fears of the mine’s environmental impact. Protests against the mine left six people dead between 2011 and 2015. An internal memorandum issued by Grupo Mexico and Southern Copper on Friday and reviewed by  Reuters notified employees about the start of work on Monday. A source with knowledge of the plans told Reuters that the document was authentic. Grupo Mexico did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. In May, Southern Copper’s vice president of finance, Raul Jacob, told Reuters that the $1.4 billion mine was slated to break ground by the end of the year or in the first half of 2025. In 2019, the Peruvian government agreed with Southern Copper that development of the project could proceed when there were adequate social conditions. Jacob told Reuters in May that these conditions had improved. The mine is eventually expected to produce 120,000 tons of copper annually. Peru is struggling to accelerate its copper production, after Democratic Republic of Congo displaced it as the world’s second largest copper producer in 2023." #cowaninternational #recruitment #mining #gateway4opportunity

𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝘂𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 Kumba a subsidiary of #SouthAfrica-based Anglo American American, announced its iron ore mine production. Production increased by 113% q-o-q to 2.71 million tonnes. However, there was a 12% y-o-y decline. Updates were also provided on the #Sishen and #Kolomela mines. These mines were reported to have achieved 75 per cent of the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (#IRMA) comprehensive mining standard. The four-part Simandou project, a joint venture between #RioTinto, Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (#CIOH) and the Government of the Republic of Guinea, is reported to be experiencing problems. Among the main factors hindering the progress of the project are ownership disputes between Rio Tinto and other partners. In addition, economic problems are also among the factors that make the continuation of the project difficult. Details about the #Zanaga Project in Democratic Congo were also shared. The Zanaga Project is planned as a large-scale iron ore #mine, processing and infrastructure facility that will produce 30 million tonnes of high quality iron ore (pellet feed) concentrate annually over a 30-year mine life. The project aims to secure financing at favourable market conditions and is poised to move forward on the development path. MinRes' Onslow Iron project plans to provide early ore shipments to Chinese company Baowuya. The project is known to consist of phases such as the discovery of iron ore reserves, planning and implementation of mining activities, assessment of environmental impacts and implementation of sustainability measures. The MinRes transshipment vessel loaded approximately 113,000 wet metric tonnes of iron ore onto a bulk carrier moored 40 km off Ashburton Harbour in New Zealand. Located in #Africa, the Western Range Project is known to be an iron ore project located in Sierra Leone. It was announced that the said project is managed by African Minerals Limited (AML), located in the mining company Sierra Leon. In the Falémé iron mines in Senegal, it was announced that the exploration of high-grade oxide ores has begun. Proven, mineable reserves are known to amount to 260 million tonnes of coarse-grained magnetite with an average iron content of 45% and 340 million tonnes of oxide ore with an average iron content of 59%. The #ironore reserves found in the Liganga and Mchuchuma regions in South-East #Tanzania present a significant opportunity to boost the country's industrial potential, with the projects reportedly aiming to stimulate economic growth by increasing Tanzania's iron ore production. The Liganga and Mchuchuma iron ore projects aim to develop Tanzania's rich iron ore reserves and plan to utilise iron ore production to meet Tanzania's various infrastructure needs. https://lnkd.in/djBeBxru

Koryx Copper’s Haib project in the arid south of Namibia is WhyAfrica’s Pick Of The Week. Not only does drilling results from Koryx Copper’s Haib project in Namibia look encouraging but the history of mining and exploration in the area is fascinating.     The Haib copper deposit is in the arid south of Namibia close to the border with South Africa where the Orange River forms the border between the two countries. Haib is located about 12 to 15km east of the B1 highway connecting South Africa and Namibia. The closest town and railway station is at Grunau, about 120km north on the main highway. The history of mining in the area dates to the late 1800s when a small number of intrepid German prospectors stumbled upon what looked, to them, like copper containing surface rocks in the dry river-bed of the Volstruis River. Subsequently small tonnages of high-grade copper carbonate ore were then mined by the Germans on the banks of the Volstruis River. After World War II George Swanson, a brave prospector, carried out small scale mining and tank leaching operations close the the Volstruis River. Swanson sold his copper to the O’okiep Copper Mines across the Orange River in South Africa. In 1963 to 1964 Falconbridge completed a more detailed exploration programme. King Resources of South Africa Pty Limited, then drilled the deposit in 1968 to 1969 to examine both lower and higher-grade sulphide zones, as well as the higher-grade oxide shear zones.     During 1972 to 1975 Rio Tinto Zinc conducted the first extensive and systematic investigation of the Haib deposit In November 1993 Rand Merchant Bank Ltd of South Africa acquired an option over the Haib property. Venmyn Rand Pty Ltd produced a study of the project. In March 1995, Great Fitzroy Mines NL and RMB George Swanson signed a joint venture called Namibian Copper Joint Venture (NCJV). From 1995 to 1999, NCJV drilled a 12 infill holes, five geotechnical investigation holes, completed 126 metres of excavation in an adit and two crosscuts for bulk sampling and metallurgical testing and carried out various test works including mining cost audits, bio-leaching studies, and milling and grinding studies. WhyAfrica Koryx Copper #whyafrica #africa #exploration #naturalresources #mining #copper #namibia #drilling #greenfields #brownfields #explorationdrilling #southafrica #whyexploreafrica #whymineafrica #whyafricaroadtrips #geology #history #africanhistory https://lnkd.in/d8ZNkR7b

Koryx Copper’s Haib project in the arid south of Namibia is WhyAfrica’s Pick Of The Week. Not only does drilling results from Koryx Copper’s Haib project in Namibia look encouraging but the history of mining and exploration in the area is fascinating.     The Haib copper deposit is in the arid south of Namibia close to the border with South Africa where the Orange River forms the border between the two countries. Haib is located about 12 to 15km east of the B1 highway connecting South Africa and Namibia. The closest town and railway station is at Grunau, about 120km north on the main highway. The history of mining in the area dates to the late 1800s when a small number of intrepid German prospectors stumbled upon what looked, to them, like copper containing surface rocks in the dry river-bed of the Volstruis River. Subsequently small tonnages of high-grade copper carbonate ore were then mined by the Germans on the banks of the Volstruis River. After World War II George Swanson, a brave prospector, carried out small scale mining and tank leaching operations close the the Volstruis River. Swanson sold his copper to the O’okiep Copper Mines across the Orange River in South Africa. In 1963 to 1964 Falconbridge completed a more detailed exploration programme. King Resources of South Africa Pty Limited, then drilled the deposit in 1968 to 1969 to examine both lower and higher-grade sulphide zones, as well as the higher-grade oxide shear zones.     During 1972 to 1975 Rio Tinto Zinc conducted the first extensive and systematic investigation of the Haib deposit In November 1993 Rand Merchant Bank Ltd of South Africa acquired an option over the Haib property. Venmyn Rand Pty Ltd produced a study of the project. In March 1995, Great Fitzroy Mines NL and RMB George Swanson signed a joint venture called Namibian Copper Joint Venture (NCJV). From 1995 to 1999, NCJV drilled a 12 infill holes, five geotechnical investigation holes, completed 126 metres of excavation in an adit and two crosscuts for bulk sampling and metallurgical testing and carried out various test works including mining cost audits, bio-leaching studies, and milling and grinding studies. Leon LouwKoryx Copper #whyafrica #africa #exploration #naturalresources #mining #copper #namibia #drilling #greenfields #brownfields #explorationdrilling #southafrica #whyexploreafrica #whymineafrica #whyafricaroadtrips #geology #history #africanhistory https://lnkd.in/dgb5sRWZ