Launch of the Integrated Development Project for the Avima, Badondo, Nabeba and Mbalam iron ore mines, as well as the construction of the Mbalam-Kribi railroad and the mineral terminal at the Port of Kribi.
December 28, 2023 will go down in history as the day of the official launch of the integrated project to exploit the Avima, Badondo, Nabeba and Mbalam iron ore mines, accompanied by the construction of the Mbalam-Kribi railway and the ore terminal at the Port of Kribi. The ceremony, held in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, was attended by leading personalities, a sign of shared commitment to a project of exceptional scope.
Under the aegis of the President of the Republic, the Ministers of Transport and Mines, Jean Ernest Masséna NGALLÈ BIBÉHÈ and Pr FUH Calistus Gentry respectively, played a central role in this crucial stage. The Congolese delegation, led by Minister of State Pierre OBA, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Cameroon to China were also present, underlining the geopolitical importance of this partnership.
The ceremony was marked by the active participation of major Chinese companies, such as CCECC, CMEC, China Railway Siyuan Survey and Design Group, CRRC Dalian, and many others, each presenting its expertise and achievements in the field. In-depth discussions took place, addressing issues related to infrastructure construction, energy supply and the concerns of local populations.
The Mbalam-Kribi railway, with its associated ore terminal, is set to revolutionize transport, facilitating the movement of over 100 million tonnes of iron ore per year. What’s more, this ambitious project promises to create more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs, as well as fiscal spin-offs estimated at over 20,000 billion CFA francs, strengthening economic ties between Cameroon and Congo.
The planned rail network, 140 kilometers long on the Congolese side and 540 kilometers long on the Cameroonian side, represents a major step forward in the mining sector. It also paves the way for increased connectivity in the sub-region, fostering economic and cultural exchanges between the two partner countries.
In their speeches, the Ministers of Transport and Mines underlined the sustained commitment of Presidents Paul BIYA of Cameroon and Denis SASSOU NGUESSO of Congo to this promising project. The realization of this vision will begin in 2024 with the launch of construction work, requiring the dispatch of experts to both countries.
On the sidelines of the ceremony, members of the government took the opportunity to visit the headquarters of CRRC, CMEC and CCECC, companies specializing in railway construction, mining and port infrastructure.
