Zanaga Iron Ore Co Ltd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms to develop port infrastructure for the Zanaga Iron Ore Project in the Republic of Congo.
The partnership will focus on creating both onshore and offshore facilities essential for iron ore exports.
Arise, a developer of industrial ecosystems specialising in infrastructure projects across Africa, is leading the development of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Pointe-Noire.
Under the agreement, the Zanaga Project’s concentrate-handling facilities will be hosted within the SEZ, benefiting from Arise's expertise in design, financing and operation of interconnected infrastructure.
The MoU outlines key collaborative efforts, including the completion of engineering works for utilities and export infrastructure, defining a services agreement for SEZ leasing and facility maintenance, and establishing a capital return agreement for infrastructure investment.
Clifford Elphick, chairman of ZIOC, stated: "The Zanaga Project has now entered into an exciting new phase.
“ZIOC's partnership with Arise provides a pathway forward for the Zanaga Project, enabling the development of essential port export facilities, both onshore and offshore, with a highly-regarded port developer, financier and operator."
Martin Knauth, chief executive of ZIOC, added: "Arise possess an excellent track record in the successful development of bulk minerals ports in West Africa and successful collaboration with private corporations such as ZIOC and its subsidiary MPD Congo to ensure high-quality project execution.
“This partnership represents a major milestone for the Zanaga Project and I look forward to working with the Arise team to rapidly advance the Mineral Export Facility to a construction decision, alongside the Zanaga Project's associated mine and infrastructure facilities."
The Zanaga Project is one of the world's largest iron ore reserves, with a JORC-compliant resource of 6.9 billion tonnes, including 2.1 billion tonnes in reserves.