In a move to bolster domestic industry and diversify its economy, Algeria is accelerating the development of the Gara Djebilet iron ore mine and its associated railway infrastructure. This initiative follows directives issued by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune during a recent cabinet meeting, emphasizing the strategic importance of utilizing locally sourced iron ore.
A high-level coordination meeting was held today at the Ministry of Energy and Mines, bringing together key stakeholders from the energy, public works, and interior ministries. The meeting, co-chaired by Minister of State and Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, and Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, focused on streamlining the technical and operational aspects of the project.
Discussions centered on expediting the extraction and processing of iron ore from the Gara Djebilet mine, with a target of commencing local utilization in the first quarter of 2026. Crucially, the meeting addressed the progress of the 950-kilometer mining railway linking Bechar, Tindouf, and Gara Djebilet. This railway is considered the backbone of the project, essential for realizing the industrial value chain and ensuring efficient transportation of the ore.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to meeting President Tebboune’s directives, including the operational launch of the western mining railway by January 2026. This project marks a significant step towards enhancing Algeria’s industrial sovereignty by securing raw materials for the domestic iron and steel industry. The initiative aims to increase local value addition, diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbons, and implement cabinet decisions to establish new iron ore processing plants in Tindouf, Bechar, and Naama, thereby creating a comprehensive industrial chain.
The Gara Djebilet project represents a strategic shift towards greater economic independence and industrial self-sufficiency for Algeria.
