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Bisie Tin Mine
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The Bisie Tin Mine, located in the North Kivu Province, is recognized as one of the highest-grade tin deposits in the world and holds immense economic significance. Operated by Alphamin Resources, the site has rapidly transformed the DR Congo into a leading global exporter of tin. Situated in an exceptionally remote and densely forested area, the development required substantial investment in regional infrastructure and logistics to facilitate industrial-scale operations. The project focuses on the Mpama North and Mpama South orebodies, with Mpama North boasting some of the highest tin concentrations ever commercially mined. As tin is a vital component for soldering in the global electronics industry, Bisie possesses high strategic value for international supply chains. Despite the immense geographical challenges, the mine has set modern standards for responsible mineral sourcing in a historically complex region.
- Location: Congo - Kinshasa
- Nearby: Walikale (50 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 111 | 127 | 206 | 194 | 165 | 82 | 57 | 116 | 186 | 242 | 264 | 168 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Bisie tin mine in North Kivu is one of the largest tin mines in the world. It plays a central role in the Congolese mining economy and global tin supply.
Visiting
The mine is located deep in the rainforest and is not accessible without special permission. From nearby villages or flight routes, the facilities can be glimpsed in the distance.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the nearby mountain ridge, from which the mine facilities in the valley can be seen. The access road also provides occasional views of the extraction equipment.
Local products
In the surrounding villages, artisanal tin concentrates and local crafts are offered. During the dry season, markets sell agricultural products and mining supplies.
Active season
The mine operates year-round, with peak extraction during the dry season from June to September. During this time, transport routes are more passable and mining activity intensifies.
Nearby
A visit to the Bisie mine can be combined with an expedition to Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The city of Goma and Mount Nyiragongo also serve as good starting points.
Geography
Facts
- Operated by Alphamin Resources (listed on the TSX-V exchange).
- Located in the Walikale Territory of North Kivu Province.
- Features the Mpama North mine, among the world's richest tin sites.
- Industrial-scale production officially commenced in 2019.
- Responsible for approximately 4% of the global tin supply.
- Required the construction of over 30 km of access roads through dense jungle.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bisie Mine?
Bisie is one of the world's most significant tin mines (cassiterite) in the eastern DRC.
Where exactly is Bisie located?
It is located in the Walikale territory in the North Kivu province.
Who operates the mine?
Alphamin Bisie Mining operates the mine with a focus on responsible mining.
Is access to the region easy?
No, the region is very remote, and access is often via specially built roads through dense forest.
What is the tin from Bisie used for?
Tin is primarily needed for solder in the global electronics industry.
Bisie Tin Mine: where is it located?
Bisie Tin Mine is located in Congo - Kinshasa.
Bisie Tin Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.
Bisie Tin Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Bisie Tin Mine, located in the North Kivu Province, is recognized as one of the highest-grade tin deposits in the world and holds immense economic significance.
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