A ceremony was held on October 6, 2026, at the Simandou project site in Morébaya, Forécariah prefecture, to mark the departure of 60 Guinean workers to China. The ceremony was presided over by Djiba Diakité, Minister Director of the President's Cabinet and President of the Simandou Strategic Committee. Diakité, speaking on behalf of President Mamadi Doumbouya, saluted the departing young workers who will play a role in the future exploitation of the Transguinéen.
The training aims to prepare Guinean competencies to operate the Simandou project infrastructure. Diakité stated that these workers will conduct trains on the Transguinéen, transporting goods from the mountains to the Moribaya port. This initiative is part of the local content plan for the Simandou megaproject, focusing on job creation, business opportunities, and training for Guinean citizens.
The local content plan has three main requirements: prioritizing jobs for Guineans, providing business opportunities for local enterprises, and anticipating the transfer of competencies and technologies. Diakité emphasized that the plan is not just a slogan, but a commitment to developing Guinean capacities. The Simandou Academy is part of this effort, aiming to equip Guineans with the skills needed to exploit, transport, and transform the country's natural resources.
The Transguinéen project is expected to have a significant impact on Guinea's economic and territorial development. Diakité praised President Doumbouya's leadership and vision for the project, which will not only transport minerals but also passengers and goods, connecting regions and populations. The project is seen as a corridor of development that will open up local markets and opportunities.
Before departing, Diakité advised the 60 workers to take full advantage of their stay in China and to return to serve Guinea with pride. He emphasized that they represent the ambitions of an entire people and must train with rigor and discipline. The workers will receive specialized training in locomotive operation, which will enable them to contribute to the country's development.
The Simandou project is a major development initiative that aims to transform Guinea's economy and improve the lives of its citizens. The project's vision, Simandou 2040, seeks to go beyond mere mineral extraction and create a sustainable and diversified economy. By investing in human capital and infrastructure, the project aims to have a lasting impact on the country.
The departure of the 60 workers marks an important milestone in the implementation of the Simandou project. As Guinea seeks to develop its natural resources and build a more prosperous future, initiatives like the Simandou Academy will play a crucial role in equipping the country with the skills and competencies needed to succeed. The workers' training in China is a key step in this process.
Key points
- The training of 60 Guinean workers in China is part of the Simandou project's local content plan, which prioritizes job creation and skills development for Guinean citizens.
