Algiers, Algeria - October 13, 2025 - State Minister, Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, presided over the installation ceremony of Redha Belhadj as the interim CEO of the Sonarem Group, Algeria's national mining company, today. Belhadj, who also serves as the CEO of the National Iron and Steel Company 'Feral,' replaces Belkacem Sultani. The ceremony was attended by the Secretary of State in charge of Mines, Karima Bakir Tafer, and several industry executives.Minister Arkab stated at the Ministry headquarters that this appointment is part of the ongoing dynamic within the energy and mining sector, particularly in its mining segment. He praised Sonarem’s pivotal role in valuing and exploiting national mineral resources, encouraging investment, and promoting mining activities, especially in major projects. These include the Gara Djebilet iron ore mine in Tindouf Province, the Tala Hamza-Oued Amizour zinc and lead project in Bejaia Province, and the integrated phosphate project in Bled El Hadba and Wadi El Keberit in Tebessa Province.
The Minister emphasized that the appointment of Redha Belhadj, a highly regarded executive with proven competence and experience in the iron and steel and mining industries, reflects the state’s commitment to relying on qualified national talent and entrusting them with strategic responsibilities to develop national institutions and drive industrial and economic transformation. He affirmed his full support for Belhadj in his new role and for continuing the path of reform and modernization to improve Sonarem’s performance and enhance its competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
Redha Belhadj expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him, pledging to continue implementing the group’s strategy based on a modern vision that values national mineral resources, encourages innovation, and embraces mutually beneficial international partnerships.
Belhadj brings over 25 years of experience in the iron and steel and mining industries to the role. He has made significant contributions to investment management and industrial projects, having held several leadership positions in major national institutions such as the Sider Group, ArcelorMittal Algeria, and Feral. His career progression includes roles from maintenance engineer to general manager and CEO of industrial enterprises.
Belhadj holds a State Engineer degree in Electronics – Automation from Badji Mokhtar University in Annaba and a Master of Business Administration from the International Management Institute.
This leadership change signals Algeria’s continued focus on developing its mining sector and leveraging national expertise to drive economic growth.
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Written by Noor Eleslam
