Joint MINMIDT–MINCOM Press point
Held under the theme, “The New Face of Cameroon’s Mining Sector: The Launch of Major Mining Projects and the Restructuring of the Gold Mining Industry,” the government communication showcased the significant transformation of Cameroon’s mining sector and outlined the reforms being implemented to modernize and strengthen the country’s gold industry.
Opening the event, the Minister of Communication underscored the importance of the press conference as an official government communication aimed at informing the public about the strategic direction of the mining sector.
In his keynote address, Prof. FUH CALISTUS Gentry highlighted that 2025 marked a historic turning point for Cameroon, with the country joining the ranks of mining-producing nations following the commissioning of five major mining projects. These include the Bipindi–Grand Zambi Iron Ore Project, the Kribi–Lobé Iron Ore Project, the Minim-Martap Industrial Bauxite Project in the Adamawa Region, the Bidzar Industrial Marble Project, and the Colomine Gold Project.
Turning to the restructuring of the gold mining sector, the Minister presented the Government’s comprehensive reform agenda anchored in the provisions of the new Mining Code. The reforms introduce a stringent regulatory framework designed to improve governance, strengthen environmental protection, enhance transparency, and maximize national economic benefits.
Key measures include a mandatory CFAF 63 million environmental rehabilitation bond for each mining site, strict enforcement of the legal requirement that Cameroonian nationals hold at least 51% of the share capital in companies applying for semi-mechanized mining permits, and a robust fiscal regime comprising a 25% final mining composite tax, 5% export duty, and 1% contribution to the Mining Policy Implementation Fund.
The reforms also establish mandatory minimum monthly production thresholds based on operational capacity—5 kilograms for sites operating 15 bowls, 7 kilograms for 20 bowls, and 10 kilograms for 30 bowls—while requiring all operators to migrate within six months to closed-circuit leaching technology, a cleaner and more environmentally sustainable mineral processing system.
According to the Minister, these reforms are aimed at restoring State authority over the sector, strengthening traceability, combating fraud, promoting responsible mining practices, and ensuring that Cameroon’s mineral wealth generates greater value for its citizens while preserving the environment and protecting the interests of future generations.
The press point concluded with remarks by the Minister of Communication, who thanked media professionals and members of the public for their strong participation and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to transparency and sustained engagement on strategic national development issues.
