KAMSAR
- Latitude: 10.6425 •
- Longitude: -14.622 •
- West Africa •
- Port in Guinea
Address: Kamsar Boke Guinea
Marine Port Description and Specification: Kamsar, Guinea
Overview: Port Kamsar is a crucial maritime facility in Guinea, primarily serving the bauxite mining industry. Located in the town of Kamsar in the Boke Region, the port plays a significant role in the export of bauxite, contributing heavily to the country's economy. The port is managed by the Compagnie des Bauxites de Guinée (CBG), the largest bauxite-producing company in Guinea.
Location:
- Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 10.6722° N latitude, and -14.5986° W longitude.
- Access: Situated on the mouth of the Rio Nunez River, along the Atlantic coast.
Facilities and Infrastructure:
- Berths: Kamsar Port has multiple berths primarily designed to accommodate bulk carriers which load bauxite. The berths are equipped with conveyor systems for efficient loading.
- Draft Depth: The port offers varying depths, with some berths accommodating vessels with drafts up to 13.5 meters. Depth might be subject to silting and dredging activities.
- Quay Length: The main quay extends several hundred meters to facilitate the docking of large vessels.
- Storage: There are large stockpiles and storage areas for bauxite near the berths. Additional facilities may include warehouses and open storage spaces.
Operations:
- Loading and Unloading: Loading operations are heavily mechanized with conveyor belts and transshipment facilities. Unloading is less critical but can be supported if needed.
- Cargo Handling: Primarily focused on bulk bauxite. Specialized equipment includes high-capacity conveyor belts, ship loaders, and stacker reclaimers.
- Annual Throughput: The port has a large throughput, reflecting Guinea's status as one of the world's top bauxite exporters. Annual cargo tonnage can reach millions of metric tons.
Services:
- Pilotage and Towing: Pilotage is compulsory for navigating the port, and towing services are available to assist vessels.
- Mooring: Professional mooring services ensure that vessels dock safely, considering tidal influences and river currents.
- Fuel and Provisions: Limited bunkering services, with more extensive ship services available in larger ports like Conakry.
Connectivity:
- Road and Rail: Kamsar is connected by road and rail networks to the interior mining areas. The rail link between the port and the bauxite mines is critical for the transport of ore.
- Airport: Kamsar has a small airport facilitating air travel, primarily for business and operational purposes.
Environmental and Safety Considerations:
- Environmental Protection: Measures are in place to mitigate the environmental impact of operations, although the extent and effectiveness are subject to regulation and enforcement by local authorities.
- Safety Protocols: Strict safety regulations govern port operations to ensure the protection of workers, vessels, and cargo.
Future Developments:
- Expansion Plans: There have been various discussions and initiatives for expanding and modernizing the port to increase its capacity and efficiency, given the global demand for bauxite.
Key Contacts:
- Port Authority: Managed by Compagnie des Bauxites de Guinée (CBG)
- Customs and Shipping Agents: Various local and international agents operate within the port to facilitate customs clearance and logistics.
Port Kamsar remains strategically critical for Guinea’s bauxite exports and represents a focal point of the regional mining infrastructure.