Why are we poor ?
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- Опубликовано: 4 дек 2024
- The estimated worth of the Tonkolili iron ore deposit in Sierra Leone is challenging to pinpoint precisely due to fluctuating iron ore prices and operational factors. However, with approximately 12.8 billion tonnes of high-grade iron ore, the potential economic value is immense, with evaluations historically positioning it as one of Africa’s largest and most valuable iron ore deposits  .
In past transactions, the Tonkolili project saw major investments: Shandong Iron & Steel acquired a 25% stake for over $170 million, and African Minerals reportedly invested around $2 billion in infrastructure and operations. Given this scale and the extensive reserves, the total valuation of the resource could be projected in the multi-billion dollar range   .
The Tonkolili iron ore mine, located in the Sula Mountain Range in Sierra Leone, is primarily known for its rich deposits of high-grade hematite and magnetite iron ore. However, the geological setting around the mine also supports the presence of a variety of other minerals commonly associated with iron-rich formations and the regional geology of West Africa.
1. Iron Ore (Hematite and Magnetite)
• Hematite (Fe₂O₃) and Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) are the primary ores mined at Tonkolili. Both minerals are rich in iron content and are the main economic drivers of the mine.
2. Quartz
• Quartz (SiO₂) often occurs alongside iron ore deposits in banded iron formations (BIFs), which are common in the geology of Tonkolili. Quartz is a stable and resistant mineral that forms in association with iron minerals.
3. Manganese Minerals
• Manganese is often found near iron ore deposits and may exist in the form of pyrolusite (MnO₂) and rhodochrosite (MnCO₃). These can sometimes be present in trace amounts in the Tonkolili region, adding potential value in some parts of the deposit.
4. Goethite
• Goethite (FeO(OH)), another iron oxide mineral, is commonly found in weathered iron ore deposits. It often occurs as a secondary mineral formed from the oxidation of other iron minerals, particularly in tropical climates like that of Sierra Leone.
5. Kaolinite and Other Clays
• Kaolinite (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄) and other clay minerals might be present as alteration products in the soil or saprolite layers above the iron ore. Kaolinite is common in tropical weathering environments where it can form from the breakdown of feldspar and other silicate minerals.
6. Chalcopyrite and Other Sulfide Minerals
• Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂), a copper-bearing mineral, may be present in small amounts. Sulfide minerals are less common but can appear in iron-rich deposits due to the interaction with sulfur-rich fluids during the formation of the ore.
7. Apatite
• Apatite (Ca₅(PO₄)₃(F,Cl,OH)), a phosphate mineral, may be present as an accessory mineral. In some banded iron formations, apatite can occur in small quantities and might be of interest as a secondary resource.
8. Carbonates (Calcite and Dolomite)
• Calcite (CaCO₃) and Dolomite (CaMg(CO₃)₂) may occur in the region, especially in altered zones. Carbonates can form from fluids interacting with iron formations, contributing to the alteration and weathering profile.
9. Trace Elements and Rare Earth Elements (REEs)
• Although not primary resources, iron ore deposits sometimes contain trace amounts of rare earth elements (REEs) such as neodymium and cerium. These elements are typically found in trace minerals like monazite or bastnäsite, though they are likely present in very low concentrations.
Environmental and Economic Considerations
Exploration around the Tonkolili mine may reveal additional mineral resources, although iron remains the principal target due to its economic value. However, as mining progresses, understanding the distribution of these associated minerals can aid in evaluating any additional resources or managing potential environmental impacts (e.g., acid mine drainage from sulfide minerals like chalcopyrite).
Note: While hematite and magnetite are the primary commercially valuable minerals, understanding the broader mineralogy helps inform waste management and environmental monitoring plans, as well as assess secondary mineral resources that might be economically viable in the future.
Only if it was true
Nor to FET for talk papay lie
We are not poor
Why are Sierra Leoneans suffering then ? Why are we mostly in hbd diaspora instead of being at home ?