Canyon Resources is entering a critical phase at its Minim Martap bauxite project just as its leadership undergoes a shake-up. The Australia-listed company announced on April 13, 2026, that CEO Peter Secker will step down, citing personal reasons.
Secker will remain in place during a transition period to ensure operational continuity as the project moves closer to production. In a statement, Chairman Mark Hohnen credited him with playing a key role in advancing Minim Martap to its current stage, now nearing commercial operations.
The company has launched an international search for a successor, seeking a candidate with strong experience in bauxite and alumina operations to lead the project through to full production capacity.
The changes extend beyond the top role. Non-executive director Scott Phegan has also resigned with immediate effect to focus on other executive responsibilities. The leadership overhaul comes at a pivotal moment for the project.
Minim Martap is now entering a decisive operational phase. Initial drilling is expected to begin soon, while commercial production is still targeted for the second quarter of 2026.
On the logistics side, seven locomotives ordered from China left their manufacturing sites at the end of March and are expected to arrive at the port of Douala by the end of the second quarter. The first shipment of ore is planned for the third quarter.
Construction of the evacuation road linking the mine to rail infrastructure is also progressing on schedule. This route is considered critical for transporting ore to the port of Douala.
At the same time, Canyon Resources is advancing two key strategic tracks. The first involves its stake in Camrail, where the company is in talks to increase its holding beyond 20%, up from the current 9.1%, to strengthen control over the logistics chain.
The second relates to future sales. The company is in advanced discussions with potential buyers but plans to finalize agreements after the first shipments, once the quality of the ore—estimated at around 51% alumina and close to 2% silica—is confirmed.
With estimated reserves of 144 million tons, Minim Martap is one of Cameroon’s largest bauxite projects. Its expected launch is seen as a major milestone for the country’s mining sector, as Cameroon looks to better capitalize on its resource potential and position itself in the global bauxite market.
Amina Malloum
