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Rio Tinto SimFer organises community forums in Beyla and Kérouané

July 4, 2025

Regular engagements create a transparent, open and inclusive platform for dialogue with communities

Beyla, Republic of Guinea – SimFer, the joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto and the CIOH consortium led by Chinalco, held community forums in the prefectures of Beyla and Kérouané on 1 and 3 July 2025. These forums brought together over 400 participants, including local authorities, civil society organisations, community leaders and representatives of women and youth to engage directly with SimFer teams about the Simandou project.

The forums served as a key platform to share the latest updates on the progress of the Simandou project, highlight recent achievements in infrastructure and social development, and raise awareness about the company’s grievance management mechanisms. They also offered community members an opportunity to voice their expectations, concerns, and aspirations regarding the project.

Fanta Keïta, Director of Community Relations, said: “These forums reflect our belief that strong and respectful relationships with the communities that host us are essential to the long-term success of the Simandou project. We are proud to walk this path hand in hand with the people living in the areas where we operate. Our goal is to build trusting relationships that are vital to maintaining a positive social climate, supporting the project’s development, and creating transformative opportunities for all parties involved.”

Rio Tinto SimFer’s approach to community relations is guided by both national and international best practices, including the IFC Performance Standards. The company prioritises early and continuous engagement, inclusive participation, and the creation of shared value. In 2024, SimFer made significant investments in community development, including the construction of 10 primary schools, a new health centre, 2 health posts in Beyla, and a youth centre in Nionsomoridou. The company also built and equipped a business centre in Beyla to support the growth of local suppliers, and implemented apprenticeship programmes in sewing, dyeing, and soap-making, benefiting nearly 200 young girls. In addition, agricultural, livestock, fish farming, and beekeeping programmes are being carried out in support of surrounding communities, helping to improve living conditions in the areas where we operate.

The community forums reaffirm SimFer’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and partnership. They are part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring that the voices of local communities remain at the heart of the Simandou project’s development.