The Simandou project, located in the Guinean region of N'Zérékoré, has entered a new phase with the commencement of mining operations at blocks 3 and 4. After several years of geological research, technical studies, and construction work, the project is now moving forward with the start of mining activities and the gradual implementation of the entire production chain. A guided tour of the Rio Tinto SimFer facilities in Beyla prefecture was organized from October 28 to 29, 2026, allowing visitors to discover the operational components of the project.
The tour provided an opportunity for visitors to understand the organization of mining activities and the technical processes in place, from ore extraction to transportation to trains for export. Georges Guilavogui, mining engineer and deputy project manager at GPC, explained the various operations carried out to meet client granulometric requirements and ensure train loading. He detailed the ore circuit, from stocks near the mine to railway loading areas, highlighting the use of specific processes such as scalpers for ore sorting.
The treatment and preparation of ore before transportation constitute essential links in the production chain. Guilavogui explained that the process involves recovering ore from stocks in IOS areas, transporting it to treatment facilities at COS, and then stocking and transporting it to railway loading areas. The ore is sorted into two main categories based on granulometry: 125 millimeters and less than 40 millimeters. The GPC team is responsible for supporting the start of mining activities, with Guilavogui having joined the project in February 2025.
The quality of the Simandou deposit is based on a long natural geological process and several decades of scientific research and investigation. Zézé Kalivogui, mining geology superintendent, provided insights into the characteristics of the deposit and the history of exploration work carried out by Rio Tinto since acquiring the permit in 1997. He explained the natural phenomenon of supergene enrichment that contributed to the formation of the exceptional deposit.
Kalivogui highlighted the extensive research conducted on the project, including detailed mapping, geophysical surveys, and intense drilling campaigns. Over 400 kilometers of drilling have been carried out to date, allowing for a detailed understanding of the deposit and its potential. The exploration work has involved using specialized machines to collect rock samples at depth, which are then analyzed to determine the quality of the ore.
The start of mining operations at Simandou marks a significant milestone in the development of the project. The deposit is considered to be of world-class quality, with a unique geological history. Rio Tinto SimFer's investment in the project is expected to contribute to Guinea's economic growth and development.
The project is expected to generate significant revenue for the Guinean government and create employment opportunities for local communities. The mining operations will also involve the transportation of ore to railway loading areas, which will require careful planning and management to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Key points
- Rio Tinto SimFer has commenced mining operations at blocks 3 and 4 of the Simandou project in Guinea.
- The project involves the extraction and transportation of iron ore to railway loading areas.
- The deposit is considered to be of world-class quality, with a unique geological history.
