Baowu Steel strengthens its team in Guinea’s Mount Simandou project with 150 members from China, aiming to bolster its efforts amidst competition from various international firms. Key appointments and negotiations are underway as the project navigates internal governmental challenges and external partnerships.
Baowu Steel has enhanced its workforce for the Mount Simandou iron ore megaproject, comprising approximately 150 personnel primarily from China. The recent appointment of Bouna Sylla underscores his pivotal role in negotiations as he navigates through a government ministry facing a crisis.
In the context of the Trans-Guinean railway, a Chinese firm and a US counterpart are vying for a significant contract related to signaling and locomotives, with French company Alstom also expressing interest in the project. This competition highlights the growing international focus on Guinea’s mining infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the UK-Australian firm is actively engaged in the procurement of subcontractors and negotiating iron sale prices with its Chinese clients. They are eagerly awaiting financial backing from their partner, Chinalco, which is anticipated in March. Additionally, Rio Tinto has been in discussions with the Guinean junta to further its interests in the project.
The Mount Simandou project is witnessing significant international involvement, particularly from Baowu Steel, which has mobilized a substantial team. The ongoing negotiations and strategic partnerships involving major players like Rio Tinto and potential contracts for railway development reflect the project’s critical economic significance. The leadership of Bouna Sylla may be crucial in stabilizing the current crisis within the Guinean ministry.
Original Source: www.africaintelligence.com
