Leading The Way: How Fuh Calistus Gentry Is Transforming Cameroon's Mining Industry


Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry 

By Raymond Dingana 

As Cameroon rapidly moves from just having a wealth of minerals to becoming a major player in mining, all eyes are on Interim Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development, Professor Fuh Calistus Gentry. Under his leadership, the country is not just dreaming of a brighter future but is actually reaching important industrial milestones while reforming a sector that has often faced challenges.

Making Progress: Key Projects in Motion

Recently, Cameroon has seen remarkable developments on major projects that are setting the stage for a strong mining future. Two significant iron ore projects in the South Region, launched by the Prime Minister with Minister Gentry by his side, mark the beginning of this exciting new chapter.

The Bipindi-Grand Zambi Iron Ore Project has started mining operations, with about 600,000 tonnes of ore already stacked up. The goal is to reach 7 million tonnes before processing begins, and two processing plants are under construction to export high-grade iron concentrate.

Another crucial development is the Kribi-Lobe Mineral Terminal, where the foundation stone for important export infrastructure has been laid. This will help Cameroon's minerals reach global markets more easily.

In addition, the Minim-Martap Bauxite Project is set to become the country's first major bauxite mine, aiming for its first shipment by mid-2026. Minister Gentry played a key role in signing the mining agreement for this valuable resource, which is being strongly supported by the government as a vital national priority.


 Addressing Old Challenges: Focus on Formalization and Transparency

Minister Gentry's time in office is marked by his commitment to tackling longstanding issues that have plagued the sector. A 2025 study pointed out significant problems, such as an outdated Geological and Mineral Information System and a lack of funding for mapping, leading to transparency issues.

To address these challenges, the ministry is focusing on formalizing the sector through a new legal framework and strengthening state institutions. 

The New Mining Code, enacted in December 2023, is a major reform that provides clearer regulations, mandates government participation in mining companies, and gives the state-owned National Mining Company (SONAMINES) exclusive rights to buy and sell gold and diamonds.

This empowers SONAMINES to fight against illegal trade. In 2023, the company transferred 170.9 kg of gold to the state, contributing 5 billion CFA francs to the public finances and showing the government’s growing ability to earn from the mining sector.

Additionally, the strategy includes building the first enclosed gold processing unit in Ketté and plans for a national gold refinery to meet international standards.


Vision and Goals: Aligning with National Strategy

Minister Gentry’s role goes beyond extraction. He aims to enhance resources, support local industry, and encourage technological growth, goals that match Cameroon's National Development Strategy.

His responsibilities involve carefully managing resources and following the directives from the Head of State, transforming the mining sector into a significant contributor to the national economy.

Major Projects Under Gentry’s Leadership

Here’s a brief look at key projects that highlight the progress being made in Cameroon's mining transformation:

- Bipindi-Grand Zambi (Iron Ore): Currently active in mining and stockpiling, this project holds 150 million tonnes of reserves and is set to be the first major iron ore export project.

-Minim-Martap (Bauxite): This project is in the development stage with equipment being mobilized, targeting its first shipment by mid-2026 with premium-grade ore.

-Colomine Gold Mine: Almost 90% complete, this will be Cameroon’s first underground gold mine.

-Kribi-Lobe Mineral Terminal: The foundation has been laid for this vital export infrastructure.


The Road Ahead For Cameroon's Mining Sector


Critics may focus on any discrepancies in gold figures, branding them as failures, but this overlooks a crucial reality: it reveals deep-rooted issues that the ongoing reforms are designed to fix. The rise in SONAMINES’ gold collections from 170.9 kg in 2023 to 640 kg in 2024 shows that progress is being made.

Professor Fuh Calistus Gentry’s leadership is not about creating challenges but about effectively implementing a national strategy to overcome them. His work is moving Cameroon’s mining sector from a state of informal potential to a formal, industrial reality, ensuring that the benefits are captured for the nation’s development.

Drayinfos.com


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