The gold mining sector in southern Algeria is at a major turning point. After decades of small-scale artisanal mining, the Amesmassa and Tirek gold deposits in In Guezzam are preparing to move into a new phase, that of industrial exploitation.
Djamel Eddine Choutri, advisor to the Minister of Energy and Mines, lifted the veil on this project yesterday, November 25, 2025, during his speech on national radio.
Indeed, Algeria plans to link up with international partners and focus on innovation and technology to take full advantage of the mining potential of the south of the country. Thus, transforming the natural wealth of the Sahara, particularly gold, into engines of sustainable development.
Gold mining: Algeria relies on international partnerships to exploit its gold wealth
Currently, the Amesmassa and Tirek deposits in In Guezzam are exploited in an artisanal manner. However, the Algerian government plans to set up an intense research and exploration program, aimed at developing its mineral resources.
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In this context, the Sonarem has launched an appeal inviting foreign companies for partnerships aimed at fully exploiting the potential of these deposits. Moreover, negotiations are underway with foreign companies, in particular with the Australian group Liosbig Group. The latter showed his interest in collaborations with Algeria, particularly in the gold mining industry.
At the beginning of 2024, Mohamed Arkab, the Minister of Energy and Mines, received Brian Wesson, the CEO of the Australian group. He expressed the ability of his company to carry out “ manufacturing industry projects in this area in a sustainable manner, relying on environmental protection, training, technology transfer, promotion of local content anda creation of wealth and jobs ».
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In short, Algeria is firmly committed to putting in place the necessary means for the transformation of the gold mining sector in southern Algeria. Human and technological resources will be mobilized. Additionally, the government will invest in training and research in the gold industry to exploit the resources in depth. Thus moving from artisanal exploitation of the gold deposits of Amesmassa and Tirek in In Guezzam to industrial exploitation.
