Angola’s Aspiration to Become a Major Critical Minerals Exporter at African Mining Week
Angola aims to emerge as a key exporter of critical minerals in the next 10-15 years, as highlighted by the African Mining Week (AMW). The country has identified 34 critical minerals and is ramping up exploration, leading various projects to boost its mining sector and economic diversification. Key investments include the Longonjo Rare Earth Project and the Mavoio-Tetelo copper project, alongside initiatives in manganese and steel production.
Angola is positioning itself to become a significant exporter of value-added critical minerals within the next decade to 15 years. The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW), a leading mining event in Africa, aims to highlight Angola’s potential as a global exporter of critical minerals.
The country has identified 34 out of the 54 critical minerals recognized by the European Union within its mineral-rich regions. The government is increasing exploration, production, and downstream projects as part of its strategy to enhance economic diversification and enhance revenue generation from the mining sector.
AMW offers a crucial platform to explore mining opportunities across Africa and will take place alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Interested parties can reach out for information at [email protected].
In January 2025, Pensana secured financial backing from South Africa’s Absa Bank to further its Longonjo Rare Earth Project. This $325 million initiative is projected to provide 5% of the world’s high-grade rare earth carbonate, generating $6 billion in export revenues and contributing $1 billion in tax revenue to local governments, thereby aiding Angola’s economic diversification.
Additionally, Shining Star, a Chinese mining firm, is set to initiate production at the Mavoio-Tetelo copper project this year. This project aims to yield 300,000 tons of copper annually, significantly impacting Angola’s mining revenues. Australian company Tyranna Resources, in collaboration with China’s Sinomine, has also engaged in various lithium projects in Angola, including drilling activities that are revealing more resources and accelerating development.
Angola is advancing the manganese sector by developing a $250 million manganese-to-silica processing facility in partnership with ST New Materials, anticipated to commence operations in 2025. Additionally, there are efforts underway to produce steel from iron in the Kasinga region.
As Angola seeks to attract investment in its critical mineral value chain, AMW 2025 will convene national stakeholders and global investors to explore collaborations and growth opportunities within the industry, featuring panel discussions, project showcases, and exclusive networking opportunities.
Angola’s ambition to become a leading exporter of critical minerals is gaining momentum, driven by strategic partnerships and significant investments in mining projects. The African Mining Week presents a vital opportunity for stakeholders to connect, fostering collaborative efforts to enhance the country’s mining sector and economic diversification. With multiple projects underway, Angola is poised to make impactful contributions to the global critical minerals market.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
