Ivanhoe Atlantic has completed and submitted key Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) for its Kon Kweni Iron Ore Mine in Guinea and the associated transport infrastructure in Liberia—marking a major step toward commencing construction in early 2026. These critical submissions support the permitting process and reflect the company’s commitment to sustainable development across both countries.
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The Guinea ESIA covers Phase 1 mining activities, targeting an initial production of 2 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), ramping up to 5 mtpa, while the Liberian ESIA addresses the infrastructure component, including rail and port logistics.
Both assessments are the result of extensive social, environmental, and biodiversity studies, incorporating community engagement and adhering to the International Finance Corporation’s and Equator Principles’ standards.
The ESIA submissions follow the signing of Ivanhoe Atlantic’s Concession and Access Agreement for the Liberian multi-user rail and port, which is currently before the Liberian National Legislature for ratification.
Ivanhoe Atlantic President and CEO Bronwyn Barnes said the milestone reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable development.
“Ensuring the environmental surroundings alongside our operations remain places where families, businesses, and wildlife can thrive is foundational to Ivanhoe Atlantic’s business principles.
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The completion of both Phase 1 ESIA submissions is a significant milestone as we near the commencement of construction for Kon Kweni. Congratulations to our in-country teams and assessment partners for ensuring this process was completed to world’s best practice standards,” Barnes said.
Barnes added that the Kon Kweni project will play an important role in supporting economic growth in both Guinea and Liberia, while establishing a new high-grade iron ore export route aligned with US critical mineral supply requirements.
She further explained that the ESIA submissions demonstrate the company’s commitment to responsible mining and provide a framework to ensure future operations are conducted in a transparent, sustainable, and socially accountable manner.
“We are delighted that our working relationship with the Governments of Guinea and Liberia continues to strengthen, as does the collaboration with local communities and broader stakeholders. We look forward to supporting the ESIA review processes through continued consultation,” said Barnes.
The project is positioned as a transformational investment for the region, expected to generate long-term economic growth, stimulate infrastructure development, and attract further investment across Guinea and Liberia.