Cameroon bauxite project takes shape as Canyon locks in equipment, rail and leadership

Canyon Resources is pushing ahead with preparations at its Minim Martap Bauxite Project in Cameroon, with the developer maintaining momentum across operations, transport and financing as it works towards a February 2026 commissioning milestone. The Australia-based miner said major equipment and infrastructure elements are now falling into place. A surface miner was delivered to the Port of Douala in December 2025, while upgrades to surrounding road networks have begun and are expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2026. To support bulk material movements, the company is also planning for the arrival of locomotives and wagons during the same period. On current timelines, Canyon is aiming to load its first shipment of bauxite for export in late June 2026.

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Operational readiness has also been strengthened through senior appointments, according to chief executive Peter Secker. He said the Mine Director and Port Manager positions have now been filled, with both executives due to be based onsite this month to oversee the transition from development to early production.

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Beyond the mine gate, Canyon is reshaping its logistics footprint. The company expects to lift its stake in the rail line connecting Minim Martap to export ports from 9 per cent to roughly 35 per cent by the end of the first quarter of 2026. At the same time, it plans to award a transhipment services contract within that window. Funding discussions are nearing completion to cover the remaining capital needs for the project, including AUD100 million ( USD 67 million) from Eagle Eye Asset Holdings and a further AUD70 million ( USD 47 million) from Afriland.

Looking further ahead, Canyon confirmed progress on downstream plans, with the feasibility study for a proposed alumina refinery now about 45 per cent complete. Subject to the study’s outcome, construction of the value-adding facility is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026.

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