Mining 2026

CAMEROON Trends and Developments Contributed by: Aurélie Chazai, Paul Ariel Kombou, Vanina Fonga and Dylan Dave Tchouankeu, Chazai Wamba

The NDS30 places strong emphasis on the develop - ment of the mining–metallurgy–steel value chain. This approach is based on integrated projects designed to better utilise national mineral resources. The main objectives are to significantly increase industrial pro - duction and create stable, sustainable jobs that sup - port long-term, inclusive economic growth. In the extractive industries sector, the Government plans to prioritise the effective launch of large-scale mining projects, many of which are still awaiting implementation. At the same time, the NDS30 sets out several key policy directions to better structure the mining sector. These include strengthening the security of mining agreements through general audits, supporting effi - cient local companies by encouraging their direct participation in the mining value chain, and limiting excessive reliance on foreign subcontracting. The strategy also focuses on organising and supervising artisanal mining activities, particularly for gold, lime - stone and other precious minerals, as well as promot - ing local construction materials. Finally, the NDS30 highlights the importance of improv - ing knowledge of Cameroon’s geological potential and strengthening institutional capacities, especially through modernising national research laboratories. These actions are essential to create a more credible, competitive and investor-friendly mining environment. Key Mining Projects and Future Outlook Several projects illustrate the gradual development of Cameroon’s mining sector, notably: • The Mbalam mining project: the Mbalam Iron Ore Project spans the border between the Republic of Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. It involves the development of mining operations in both countries, with a combined production capacity of approximately 35 million tons per year. The pro - ject includes the construction of a 510 km railway dedicated to transporting iron ore from the Mbalam mine to the Cameroonian coastline, along with a 70 km railway linking the network to the Nabeba mine in the Republic of Congo.

• The industrial iron ore project at Lobé-Kribi: this project effectively and technically commenced on November 2023 and is based on reserves estimat - ed at approximately 632.82 million tons of magnet - ite, with an average iron content of 33%. • The underground mine by Codias SA: the country’s first underground mine, with nearly one-kilometre infrastructure, has reportedly been built more than 100 meters below ground, in the East region of Cameroon. These projects are expected to play a structuring role and generate positive spill-over effects across the national economy. Conclusions The analysis of the mining sector in Cameroon shows a sector with strong potential that is still largely under - used but clearly moving toward gradual transforma - tion. The mining sector’s current contribution to the national economy remains very low. However, this situation does not reflect a lack of mineral resources. Instead, it highlights long-standing structural and organisational weaknesses that the Cameroonian authorities are now actively addressing. Through major national policy documents such as the NDS30, the State has clearly expressed its ambi - tion to make mining a key driver of economic growth, industrial development, and job creation. The ongo - ing reforms aim to improve the legal and institutional framework, strengthen geological knowledge, develop supporting infrastructure, and encourage local pro - cessing of mineral resources. Together, these meas - ures are designed to create a more stable, transparent, and attractive environment for mining investments. At the same time, the sector still faces important challenges. Artisanal and informal mining remains dominant, reliable geological data is limited, and infra - structure such as roads, energy supply, and trans - port systems is insufficient in many areas. These constraints increase project risks and require for - eign investors to adopt a cautious and well-prepared approach. Investing in Cameroon’s mining sector, therefore, requires strong technical capacity and a medium- to long-term vision.

60 CHAMBERS.COM