Algerian Radio
Experts and academics highlighted on Monday in Algiers the strategic importance of the mining sector in national economic development, emphasizing its role in consolidating national sovereignty and economic diversification.
They were speaking at a seminar organized by the National Institute for Global Strategy Studies (INESG) titled: "From the National Liberation Plan to Empowerment and Development: Global Mobilization Strategy and the Nationalization of Mines as a Cornerstone of the National Path (1962–2026)." The event was attended by researchers, historians, state officials, and industry professionals.
In his opening remarks, the Director General of INESG, Abdelaziz Medjahed, noted that the meeting coincides with the centenary of the creation of the North African Star (ENA) on March 2, 1926, whose political program called for the reclamation of national wealth, particularly mining resources.
He recalled that mines were nationalized on May 6, 1966, stating that this decision established Algeria's sovereignty over its natural resources. He also pointed out that during the colonial period, the Algerian mining sector primarily served the needs of French industry.
For his part, Saïdi Meziane, a teacher and historian at the École Normale Supérieure of Bouzaréah, noted that the ENA program placed central importance on national sovereignty over the country's wealth and territorial integrity, considering these principles a foundation of the national movement.
In a retrospective of the sector, he indicated that large-scale mining in Algeria began in 1871, with the export of resources such as phosphates, iron, lead, zinc, coal, and marble to France.
Mining expert Rachid Tridi stated that the ENA demanded the restitution of mines and other strategic sectors to the Algerian state. He emphasized that the nationalization of mines allowed Algeria to exert full control over its natural resources.
Industrial economy expert Réda Amrani highlighted the national mining potential, suggesting it remains under-explored. He advocated for strengthened coordination between the National Mining Research and Exploitation Company (SONAREM) and Sonatrach to optimize the use of data regarding mineral deposits.
Geologist Messaoud Houfani discussed the structural projects launched in recent years, specifically citing the Gara Djebilet iron mine, the integrated phosphate project at Bled El Hadba, and the Tala Hamza zinc and lead mine. According to him, these projects are expected to drive the development of mining and steel activities while strengthening Algeria's position in international markets.
