By: Energy capital & power

The Moribaya mining port – part of the Simandou project in Guinea-Conakry will export up to 120 million tons of iron ore per year once construction is complete. The port’s first shipments are expected in November 2025.

The Simandou project is one of the largest iron ore developments in Africa. It includes extensive mining operations, a 622-kilometer railway connecting the mines to the Atlantic coast and the Moribaya deep-water port. The project is designed to transport high-grade iron ore to international markets, supporting long-term exports primarily to industrial consumers such as China.

The project is being developed by mining companies WCS and Baowu, who are building the first 60-million-ton section, and SimFer – a joint venture between mining groups Chalco and Rio Tinto – who is handling the second half. After completion, the entire facility will be transferred to the TransGuinean railway company for operation.

Chris Aitchison, CEO of SimFer, explained that “More than 80% of our workforce is Guinean, including in managerial and decision-making positions. This figure is expected to grow as the project advances. We must ensure that the local populations are fully satisfied.”