Simandou positions CPCS as strategic advisor for Africa’s mineral-rich countries
CPCS, a global infrastructure advisory firm, is seeing increased demand from mineral-rich countries looking for strategic mining development expertise, following its central role in supporting negotiations and structuring the Simandou project, a major iron ore project in Guinea — one of the world’s largest and most complex mining ventures.
“Like Guinea, other countries are seeking that same level of strategic clarity and execution as they position themselves in the global minerals market and try to maximise revenue and economic impact for the population”, said Hichame Selmaoui, Senior Vice President at CPCS.
Key points
- Mineral-rich countries need strong frameworks to attract investment and protect national interests.
- Our work on Simandou is a model for aligning infrastructure with governance and fair agreements.
- CPCS provides the strategic clarity and execution support governments need to leverage their mineral resources, ensuring long-term value and sustainable growth.

Simandou, a benchmark
CPCS’s involvement in Simandou included structuring multi-party agreements, establishing the project’s management office, and aligning infrastructure development with long-term national goals.
The project is now seen as a model for how African nations can manage large-scale mining ventures while protecting sovereignty and maximizing economic impact.
“Countries seek partners who have closed complex deals, delivered results in complex environments, understand the infrastructure sector, and can help them negotiate agreements that maximise economic benefits and protect national interests”, adds Hichame.
Our work in Guinea and elsewhere has shown that it’s possible for Africa to successfully align infrastructure development, local content, regulatory frameworks with solid governance and fair agreements that attract the private sector.
Proven model for sustainable mining and infrastructure development
CPCS is helping governments structure and negotiate agreements for mining and related infrastructure projects that deliver long-term national benefit.
- Infrastructure planning to support extraction, transport, and export
- Fiscal and regulatory advisory to balance investor confidence with public interest
- Transaction support to ensure fair and transparent mineral deals

About CPCS
CPCS is a global infrastructure advisory firm that works with governments, development partners, and private stakeholders to unlock the full potential of mineral-rich countries through sustainable mining and infrastructure development. We help design frameworks that are technically sound, commercially viable, and socially responsible. Services include strategic planning, transaction support, and institutional strengthening.

