WEC Water, a leader in sustainable wastewater treatment technologies, has announced the award of a significant new project — the supply and installation of a 125 m³/day conventional activated sludge sewage treatment plant at a major gold mining operation in Côte d’Ivoire.
This latest contract marks another important milestone for WEC Water in its ongoing mission to provide high-performance, scalable water treatment solutions across Africa, particularly in remote and industrially demanding regions.
Replacing the Mine’s Outdated STP
The new project will involve the complete replacement of the mine’s existing sewage treatment plant (STP), which has reportedly struggled to meet the growing wastewater demands of the mining facility. WEC Water will deploy its cutting-edge Model A Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) system, known for its compact footprint, high efficiency, and modular design.
According to the company, this upgrade will significantly enhance the treatment performance, ensuring the mine’s operations remain compliant with environmental discharge standards and reducing the risk of contamination to surrounding ecosystems.
Why MBBR Technology?
WEC Water’s decision to implement MBBR technology stems from its superior ability to handle variable loads, which is especially beneficial for mining operations where wastewater flows can fluctuate unpredictably.
The Model A MBBR system features a unique combination of activated sludge processes and floating biofilm media, enabling it to treat double the capacity within the same physical footprint as conventional systems. This feature alone makes it a game-changer for remote sites with space constraints or limited infrastructure.
The MBBR system being deployed also includes an integrated lifting station, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for multiple separate pumping units. This not only reduces upfront costs but also streamlines ongoing maintenance.
Key Benefits at a Glance
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High-Efficiency Treatment: The hybrid treatment process enhances nutrient removal and reduces sludge generation, making it both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
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Modular & Scalable: The system is designed for future adaptability, meaning additional modules can be added or removed based on changing capacity needs.
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Quick Deployment: Thanks to its compact and containerized design, the system is easy to transport, install, and commission — a critical factor in remote or logistically challenging regions.
A Milestone for Sustainability in Mining
Commenting on the project, a spokesperson from WEC Water said:
“We are thrilled to partner with this prestigious gold mining operation in Côte d’Ivoire. Our MBBR solution is perfectly suited to meet the mine’s sewage treatment needs with minimum disruption and maximum efficiency. More importantly, it reinforces our commitment to enabling sustainable industrial practices across Africa.”
The installation also aligns with the growing push for environmental compliance and sustainability in the extractives sector. As international regulations become more stringent, mining companies are under increasing pressure to adopt environmentally responsible wastewater management strategies.
Supporting Development in Remote Regions
WEC Water has built a reputation for engineering robust and resilient treatment systems capable of performing in the harshest of environments — from arid desert outposts to high-altitude mining camps.
This Côte d’Ivoire project highlights the company’s expanding footprint in West Africa and its ability to serve clients in logistically complex locations. By offering plug-and-play systems with low operational demands, WEC Water is making it easier for industries to operate sustainably in places where traditional infrastructure is either lacking or cost-prohibitive.
Looking Ahead
This project is one of several that WEC Water is delivering across Africa, and it underscores the company’s strategic focus on the mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors. With increasing demand for water recycling and wastewater treatment across the continent, the company expects to see continued growth in the deployment of its Model A MBBR systems and other modular treatment solutions.
As part of its long-term vision, WEC Water is committed to leveraging innovation to solve Africa’s pressing water challenges — one remote site at a time.
