(Ecofin Agency) - Mining company SEMAFO announced yesterday May 24, it has concluded a 70-months mining service contract with African Underground Mining Services (AUMS) to develop its Siou underground mine in Burkina Faso.

According to agreed terms, AUMS will provide the mining fleet and a skilled labor force. It will also be charged with the mine’s development and production as well as auxiliary services. Meanwhile, SEMAFO will provide technical services especially in geology and engineering, and leverage the existing surface infrastructure in Mana, 20 km from Siou.

Let’s note that preliminary works are underway and the mine (Siou) is scheduled to enter into production by early 2020. Siou mine is part of Mana project which along with Boungou project, are SEMAFO’s two key assets in Burkina Faso.