CAMRAIL and CAMALCO Seal Rail Operations Agreement for Minim-Martap Bauxite Transport
CAMRAIL, the concessionaire of Cameroon’s rail network and a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics, and CAMALCO S.A., the Cameroonian subsidiary of Canyon Resources Ltd, have announced the signing of a term sheet defining the conditions governing the rail transport of bauxite.
This contractual milestone marks a significant step forward, as it initiates the process for launching reinforcement works on selected sections of the rail network, aimed at supporting the ramp-up of the Minim-Martap project.
The result of extensive technical, operational and commercial negotiations, the term sheet concluded on Wednesday formalises the arrangements for transporting the ore from the Adamaoua Region to the Port of Douala. It reflects the shared commitment of the State of Cameroon, CAMRAIL and CAMALCO to unlock the country’s mining potential through a dynamic and high-performing Public-Private Partnership.
The Minim-Martap bauxite project, led by CAMALCO, represents a major economic opportunity for Cameroon, with reserves estimated at more than 144 million tonnes and an exceptionally high alumina content of 51.2%. The integration of rail as the logistical backbone of this project reaffirms CAMRAIL’s central role in accelerating national industrialisation.
“By signing this agreement with CAMALCO, CAMRAIL demonstrates its ability to support the State’s major structuring projects. We are proud to place our expertise at the service of Cameroon’s mining expansion,” said Joel Hounsinou, Chief Executive Officer of CAMRAIL.
Beyond its technical scope, this strategic partnership is expected to act as a catalyst for local value creation. It will help safeguard direct and indirect employment across both the mining and rail sectors, while strengthening Cameroon’s position as a key player in the African mining landscape.
“Rail is the lifeblood of the Minim-Martap project. Finalising this agreement with CAMRAIL was an indispensable step in unlocking the potential of our world-class deposit. We have full confidence in our partner to meet the logistical challenge and enable us to export our bauxite to international markets under the most competitive conditions,” said Rana Pratap Singh, Chief Executive Officer of CAMALCO.
Teams from both organisations are now fully mobilised to operationalise the agreement and ensure the successful delivery of this major project.
