Fortescue Belinga begins construction of provincial headquarters in Makokou

Fortescue Belinga has officially commenced construction of its provincial headquarters in Makokou, located in Gabon’s Ogooué-Ivindo province. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Vice-President Hermann Immongault and Rebecca Hayward, Director of Fortescue Belinga Operations.

The establishment of this headquarters aims to strengthen the Australian industrial group’s territorial presence near the Belinga iron ore deposit. This move aligns with directives from President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who has encouraged major companies operating in Gabon to establish physical, long-term headquarters within their operational zones to demonstrate economic commitment.

The project is expected to drive significant local economic activity. The scaling of the Belinga project is projected to create approximately 1,450 short-term jobs, with Gabonese nationals currently making up over 83% of the workforce. Additionally, Fortescue Belinga has invested nearly 2.5 billion CFA francs into community projects as of June 2026, including vocational training and support for local entrepreneurs.