15-04-2025
Africorp Mining Wins ONHYM Tender for Copper Site in Central Morocco
Rabat – Africorp Mining has won an international call for tenders issued by Morocco's National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) to operate the Naour copper deposit in the province of Beni Mellal.
The project carries a total investment of over MAD 230 million ($23 million), with more than MAD 30 million ($3 million) allocated to acquire the operating license.
The operation will be led by Merija Mining, a subsidiary of Africorp Mining and part of the wider Africorp Consortium chaired by Saad Berrada Sounni, the group´s majority shareholder. Located near the town of Ksiba, the Naour deposit signals a new chapter in the company's strategy to expand its footprint in Morocco's mining landscape.
Africorp described the deal as a turning point for Merija, whose first venture in copper flotation began in 2019 in Bouarfa. That project is now fully operational and helped establish the company's credibility in the sector.
Read also: Aterian Uncovers Gold, Silver, and Copper Deposits in Central Morocco
According to company estimates, Naour contains more than 1.5 million tonnes of copper-bearing rock, with an average concentration of 1.5%. Projections show that the site could generate up to MAD 250 million ($25 million) in annual revenue by 2027.
'This project opens a new horizon for us,' said Mohamed Lazaar, President of Africorp Mining. 'It builds on the momentum we created in Bouarfa and gives real shape to other prospects we've been exploring.'
The consortium sees the Naour development as more than a commercial milestone. It views the project as reflecting its efforts to structure business units around high-impact projects with long-term value for surrounding communities.
'Our goal has always been to support each division as it grows,' said Hassa Benjorfi, Vice President of Africorp Consortium. 'What we see with Merija is an example of how one well-executed project can anchor a broader industrial vision. Africorp Mining stands at the intersection of economic performance and national responsibility.'
The project also aligns with Morocco's national mining strategy, which places growing importance on local value creation, environmental accountability, and regional development.
In previous operations , Merija introduced solar-powered water pumps to nearby villages, supported local employment, and helped establish basic services in remote areas. With Naour, the company strives to deepen its role as an economic actor and territorial partner.
Through this new step, Africorp Consortium confirms its intention to develop industry clusters with long-term potential while staying in step with Morocco's economic direction. Tags: Africorpcopper Moroccocopper siteONYHMONYHM Morocco
