Debele Bauxite Mine

The Debele Bauxite Mine, often referred to as the Kindia Mine, is a significant mining operation in Maritime Guinea, located about 100 kilometers east of Conakry. It is operated by the Compagnie des Bauxites de Kindia (CBK), a subsidiary of the Russian aluminum giant RUSAL. The mine plays a central role in the economic cooperation between Guinea and Russia. Geographically, Debele is set in a hilly landscape that marks the foothills of the Fouta Djallon highlands. The bauxite extracted here is transported via a historic railway line, modernized for mining purposes, directly to the Port of Conakry, where RUSAL maintains its own loading facilities. Since its opening in the 1970s (originally with Soviet assistance), the mine has contributed to the development of local infrastructure, including power and water supply for surrounding communities. Economically, Debele is a stable employer within the Kindia Prefecture. Despite its long history of operation, the mine still holds substantial reserves. Environmental impacts from open-pit mining are addressed through land reclamation efforts, though landscape changes remain a key point of discussion with local residents.

Nearby cities

Conakry

The vibrant capital of Guinea, located on a peninsula on the Atlantic Ocean.

Dubréka

Dubréka is a city north of Conakry, known for its picturesque mountains and proximity to Mount Soumba.

Kindia

Kindia is located northeast of Conakry and is famous for its banana plantations and citrus fruit cultivation.

Coyah

Coyah is located near Conakry and is known for its natural water springs.

Télimélé

Télimélé is a city in the Kindia region known for its livestock farming and agricultural trade.

Forécariah

Forécariah is located in southwestern Guinea near the border with Sierra Leone.

Friguiagbé

Friguiagbé is located in the Kindia prefecture and is a major producer of pineapples and other tropical fruits.

Souguéta

Souguéta is an important stopping point on the main road from Conakry to the north of Guinea.

Wonkifong

Wonkifong is an important agricultural center near the coast, known for grain and fruit cultivation.

Maférinyah

Maférinyah is located south of Conakry and is known for its extensive rice fields and coastal mangroves.

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Kaback

A large agricultural island south of Conakry, known for rice fields, mangroves, and salt production.

Kassa Island

A tropical escape near Conakry, known for its golden sand beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

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Tamara Island

The largest and wildest island of the Îles de Los archipelago, known for its historic lighthouse and steep cliffs.

History & landmarks

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Soumba Bridge

The Soumba Bridge crosses the Soumba River near Dubréka.

Kakimbo Caves

Historical and spiritual caves in Conakry, a site of local legends and traditions.

Nature

Lake Koba

Lake Koba is located in the coastal region near Boffa.

More places

Colombière Cave

This archaeological site near Kindia contains prehistoric finds dating back to the Stone age.

Kindia Colonial Quarter

The old quarter of Kindia preserves numerous buildings from the time of the French administration, reflecting the architectural style and…

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Mount Gangan

Mount Gangan towers over the city of Kindia and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding area.

Kindia Pineapple Plantations

The region around Kindia is the hub of Guinean pineapple cultivation.

Souguéta Limestone Plant

The plant in Souguéta utilizes local limestone deposits for the production of building materials and cement additives.

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Mount Benna

A prominent sandstone plateau in the Kindia region, known for its steep cliffs.

Souapiti Hydropower Plant

Souapiti is Guinea's largest hydropower project, serving to regulate the Konkouré River and massively increase energy production.

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Garafiri Hydropower Plant

The Garafiri power plant was the first major dam project after independence and is a milestone in the national energy infrastructure.