Zinc and Lead Mining Project in Bejaia Set to Begin Operations This Month

The zinc and lead mine in Oued Amizour, Bejaia Province, is set to begin operations this month, March 2026. The mine contains an estimated 34 million tonnes of exploitable reserves, including 170,000 tonnes of zinc and 30,000 tonnes of lead. According to Professor Malek Ould Hamou, Director of the Mining Engineering Laboratory and a mining consultant, the project holds significant value in international markets. Preparatory work has commenced at the zinc and lead mine entrance in the municipalities of Tala Hamza and Amizour, under the supervision of the Wali of Bejaia, Kamel Eddine Kerbouche, and the Director-General of Sonarem Group, Reda Belhadj.

Algeria is pushing to accelerate strategic mining projects, including the Eastern Mining Line and the integrated phosphate project. The Wali of Tebessa, Ahmed Belhaddad, along with the President of the People's Provincial Assembly, the Secretary-General of the Wilaya, members of the Security Committee, executive directors, and local authorities, conducted a working visit to the administrative district of Bir El Ater to assess the progress of these projects. These projects are part of Algeria's broader strategy to diversify its economy and increase its presence in the global mining market.

The Oued Amizour mine's reserves of 170,000 tons of zinc and 30,000 tons of lead could establish it as a notable player in the international zinc and lead markets. The project's commencement follows the completion of all administrative procedures and the resolution of obstacles that had previously hindered its progress, including compensating landowners. The tragic collapse at the \"Gakombe\" artisanal mining site in the Rubaya area of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which resulted in at least 55 fatalities and dozens missing, highlights the critical importance of safety and regulatory oversight in mining operations.

The commencement of operations at the Bejaia zinc and lead mine will benefit Sonarem Group and the local economy of Bejaia Province through job creation and increased economic activity. International investors focused on base metals will gain exposure to a new source of zinc and lead supply. The integrated phosphate project and the Eastern Mining Line will likely benefit companies involved in railway construction, logistics, and phosphate processing.

Investors should monitor the progress of the Oued Amizour mine in the coming months, paying close attention to production rates and export volumes. Any delays in the Eastern Mining Line or integrated phosphate project could impact the supply chain for fertilizers and other phosphate-based products. The global price of zinc and lead will be influenced by the mine's output, as well as other macroeconomic factors.