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Matam Phosphate Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Matam Phosphate Mine, operated by the Société Minière de Matam (SOMIVA), extracts one of the most significant mineral deposits in northeastern Senegal. Located in the Ndendory and Hamady Ounaré districts, the mine was developed after decades of exploration and is crucial for the national production of fertilizers. With reserves estimated at over 40 million tons, the mine plays a key role in the country's strategy to achieve food sovereignty. The extracted ore is processed on-site and distributed to the domestic market or exported via the Port of Dakar. The mining operation has stimulated the economy of the remote Matam region by creating jobs and improving infrastructure near the Senegal River. Future expansion plans include the establishment of fertilizer manufacturing units to retain more value from the phosphate resources within Senegal.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	24	26	30	33	35	34	31	29	28	29	27	25
Rain mm	1	0	0	1	1	33	117	177	134	20	2	0

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Matam phosphate mine in Senegal is a large mining area for the extraction of phosphate for fertilizer production. It is an important economic factor in the Matam region.

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Visiting

The mine site is not publicly accessible for safety reasons. From surrounding roads, especially the N2, the waste dumps and extraction equipment can be spotted.

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Where to view it

A viewpoint is located on the rise just before Matam along the N2, offering a view of the entire mining area. The Senegal River also provides a perspective from the opposite side.

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Local products

The main product is raw phosphate, which is processed into fertilizers. The region also grows agricultural products such as millet and rice.

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Active season

Mining occurs year-round, with increased activity during the dry season from November to May. Rainy seasons can temporarily limit extraction.

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Nearby

A visit to the mine can be combined with the town of Matam and its traditional markets. Djoudj National Park with its birdlife is also reachable from here.

Geography

Coordinates

15.65000, -13.31000

Facts

Total phosphate reserves estimated at over 40 million tons
Operated by the Société Minière de Matam (SOMIVA)
Industrial exploitation of the site commenced in 2008
The ore features a high phosphate content of around 80%
Primary supplier of raw materials for local fertilizer production
Located approximately 500 kilometers from the capital, Dakar

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Matam plateau22 km · SExplore →

Maghama51 km · NExplore →

Maghama Market51 km · NExplore →

Maghama-Est53 km · NExplore →

Gorgol57 km · EExplore →

Kaedi Distribution Center59 km · EExplore →

Diouk Reserve63 km · EExplore →

Gorgol Valley98 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Matam Phosphate Mine (1)

Forêt classée de Diamel🌿 nature

This classified forest reserve preserves the natural vegetation near the mining region of Matam.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Matam phosphate mine?

An important mining project extracting phosphate for fertilizer production and export purposes.

Can one visit the mine?

No, for safety reasons, the operating site is closed to visitors.

Why is mining economically relevant here?

Phosphate is a significant export commodity that secures important foreign currency earnings for the country.

How developed is the Matam region for tourism?

The region is little developed for tourism, but provides authentic insights into the northeastern way of life.

What is the best season for the northeast?

Between November and February it is most bearable as the extreme heat of summer subsides.

Matam Phosphate Mine: where is it located?

Matam Phosphate Mine is located in Senegal.

Matam Phosphate Mine: when is the best time to visit?