Plizio Visual Lab

Okondja Manganese Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Okondja Manganese Mine, situated in the Haut-Ogooué province of eastern Gabon, represents a critical asset in the nation's strategy to diversify its mineral economy beyond the long-dominant Moanda deposits. Operated by Nouvelle Gabon Mining, a subsidiary of the India-based Co-Holdings, the project began commercial production in 2016 following extensive geological surveys that confirmed significant high-grade ore reserves. The mining operations utilize open-pit methods to extract manganese, which is then transported via the Trans-Gabon Railway to the port of Owendo for international export. This industrial complex has significantly boosted local employment and infrastructure development in the Okondja district, providing a vital economic stimulus to the remote interior region. As global demand for manganese remains high due to its essential role in steel production and battery technology, the Okondja site continues to expand its processing capacity to meet international standards. The site's integration with the national logistics network ensures a steady flow of raw materials to global markets, reinforcing Gabon's position as one of the world's top manganese producers.

Location: Gabon
Nearby: Okondja (11 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	25	25	25	25	25	25	25	25	24	24	24
Rain mm	122	146	217	203	171	52	21	44	139	253	264	186

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Okondja Manganese Mine in eastern Gabon is a significant mining project to develop new manganese deposits. It aims to complement existing mines and strengthen Gabon's position as a top global manganese producer. The mine creates jobs and boosts the regional economy.

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Visiting

The mine is an active mining site and usually not open to the public. From the surrounding hills or the access road, one can identify the extraction levels and ore loading facilities from a distance.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is a hill east of the mine, offering a panoramic view of the entire open-pit area. The bridge over the Okondja River also provides a good view of the approach roads and ore transport.

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Local products

The mine produces manganese ore, typically exported in unprocessed form. In local villages, however, agricultural products such as cassava, cooking bananas, and tropical fruits are sold at small markets.

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Active season

Mining operations run year-round as manganese is extracted continuously. Highest activity occurs during the dry season (June to September), when transporting ore on unpaved roads is most feasible.

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Nearby

A visit to the mine can be combined with a trip to the neighbouring Ivindo National Park, famous for its waterfalls and rainforests. The town of Okondja itself has insights into Gabon's rural life.