Algerian Radio
The zinc and lead mine project located between the communes of Amizour and Tala Hamza (Bejaia)—whose exploitation and development works were launched this Tuesday by the Prime Minister, Mr. Sifi Ghrieb, by commission from the President of the Republic of Algeria, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune—represents a significant step in the development of the national mining industry. It is set to strengthen Algeria's position as a major producer and exporter of mineral resources, in line with the state’s major orientations aimed at building a diversified economy.
The signal to launch the works of this project, in accordance with the deadlines set by the President of the Republic, is considered a decisive stage in the process of realizing this mega project, which is listed among the most important projects in the mining sector in Algeria, alongside the integrated phosphate project in the east of the country and the Gara Djebilet mine in Tindouf.
The President of the Republic had emphasized on several occasions the necessity of launching this project before the end of March 2026, given its certain economic impacts on the region in particular and on the national economy in general.
Located in the regions of Amizour and Tala Hamza, this mining project is one of the largest lead and zinc deposits in the region, with significant reserves qualifying it to be a fundamental pillar of the national mining industry in the coming decades, as geological reserves are estimated at 53 million tons, 34 million tons of which are exploitable.
It is also based on a gradual development plan that includes the extraction, processing, and industrial transformation stages.
The mine is based on the integration of the latest technologies in mineral separation and processing, ensuring high yields and competitive quality for the final products, according to explanations provided by the Sonarem group.
Annual raw production capacity is expected to reach 2 million tons, directed to processing units to increase added value and ensure optimal exploitation of mining resources. Meanwhile, annual production of concentrate after processing is anticipated to reach 200,000 tons per year, including 170,000 tons per year of zinc and 30,000 tons per year of lead.
The project notably includes the completion of an integrated infrastructure that encompasses the development of the mining site, the construction of processing units, and the connection to transport and energy networks, ensuring continuous economic efficiency within the framework of sustainable development.
Within the framework of this project, it is expected to create more than 700 direct jobs, in addition to approximately 4,000 other indirect positions, as well as stimulating subcontracting companies, startups, and small enterprises, not to mention its impact on local development in the Wilaya of Bejaia.
