Story perspectives

Thousands to Lose Jobs as Simandou Mining Exports Begin

12/19/2025

Center

Guinea's Job Cuts

Guinea's military government says the Simandou iron ore mining project will lay off thousands of workers as exports begin.
The project peaked at more than 60,000 jobs but will require about 15,000 for operations.
The government has commissioned a Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG) report on re-employment programs.
The IMF says long-term poverty reduction remains unlikely without active policies.

Right

Ivanhoe Develops Kon Kweni

Ivanhoe Atlantic is developing Kon Kweni iron ore deposit in Guinea, a $23 billion project described as the largest mining project globally, backed by Robert Friedland and endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Kon Kweni project aims to integrate into Western supply chains, contrasting with the China-led Simandou.
As Simandou begins iron ore exports, concerns arise about job losses and unrest, while the government pursues infrastructure and re-employment initiatives.

1 of 2

Guinea's Job Cuts

Guinea's military government says the Simandou iron ore mining project will lay off thousands of workers as exports begin.
The project peaked at more than 60,000 jobs but will require about 15,000 for operations.
The government has commissioned a Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG) report on re-employment programs.
The IMF says long-term poverty reduction remains unlikely without active policies.

1 / 2