AML braces up for 2011
Mining giant, African Minerals (SL) Limited, has indicated readiness to live up to its commitment, commencing mining and exporting direct shipping iron ore hematite by end of the year.
In its 2010 interim report, the minerals exploration and development company with significant interests in Sierra Leone, said it was focused on the development of a world class iron ore deposit at Tonkolili and its related rail and port infrastructure, north of the country.
Automation of the port operating plant has commenced
“Pepel Port rehabilitation is well under way and will be designed to handle a capacity of 10 million tons per annum (mtpa) of DSO Hematite Iron Ore for Phase I. The port materials handling infrastructure has been designed by ELB,” the report states.
While clearance work in preparation for the construction of the stockyard and port operating facilities is progressing on schedule, the structural and mechanical contractors are working on the conveyor gantries and transition towers.
“Looking ahead, the stacker will arrive early in 2011 and development has begun on the automation of the port operating plant. Contracts for dredging services and marine engineering are in final negotiations as is the contract for transhipment services,” the report states.
The company assured that it commitment to the environment was unparalleled.
“Meeting the government and licensing demands and continuing to first and foremost protect the environment in which we work, AML has ongoing biodiversity offset programmes for mitigation and enhancement currently under way,” it said adding that last year an environment social and health impact assessment (ESHIA) for Phase I was completed and the Environmental Impact Assessment Licence was granted by the Government of Sierra Leone in conjunction with the Mining Lease.
(l-r) HE President Ernest Bai Koroma shakes hands with AML's Executive Chairman Mr Frank Timis
Executive chairman Frank Timis said he was hopeful. “We are enthusiastic and extremely positive about the future prospects for African Minerals as we continue to develop and grow into a producing iron ore company.”
“The timing of the development of the Tonkolili project could not be better. Iron ore demand continues to rise and the Tonkolili project is set to lead iron ore supply out of the West African region.
“Once again I would like to thank the Government and people of Sierra Leone for their continued support, as well as the Board of Directors for their unending commitment to the vision of the Company, and our shareholders for their confidence in our project.
“Also, I would like to thank each employee for their hard work and dedication to strengthening and carrying this vision forward.”
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