UAE Investments Propel Growth in African Mining Sector
The UAE’s investments in African mining are transformative, with companies like Ambrosia injecting capital into gold projects in Ethiopia and Mali, and AD Ports enhancing logistics at Luanda Port. Other investments include International Holding Company fostering copper production in Zambia and Emiral Mining expanding iron ore projects in Mauritania and Ghana. Such initiatives signify a strong partnership strategy between UAE and African markets, culminating in collaboration opportunities at African Mining Week in Cape Town.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is significantly impacting the growth of the African mining sector through substantial investments. In February 2025, Ambrosia Investment Holding acquired a 50% stake in Allied Gold’s mining projects in Ethiopia and Mali, allocating $375 million to enhance project development. This investment is expected to increase gold output, supporting approximately 290,000 ounces annually in Ethiopia and 400,000 ounces in Mali by 2028, alongside initiatives for renewable energy implementation at the Sadiola mine.
AD Ports Group commenced operations at the Luanda Port in January 2025, advancing a $250 million investment strategy aimed at facilitating international and regional trade. The port, vital for Angola’s logistics, handles 76% of the country’s cargo and serves as a crucial conduit to Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Projections indicate a possible investment increase to $380 million to accommodate a projected annual 3.3% rise in container traffic over the next decade.
In January 2025, International Holding Company elevated ore production at the Mopani Mine in Zambia from 2.2 million tons to 2.8 million tons, following a $1.1 billion investment in March 2024. This initiative resulted in improved copper grades and job creation, expanding the workforce significantly.
Emiral Mining is advancing its iron ore initiatives in Mauritania, preparing to release a pre-feasibility report by Q1 2025 after investing $40 million since 2020. Concurrently, the company supports Ghana’s gold sector through its majority stake in Asante Gold Corporation, which is undertaking a substantial $522 million expansion of key gold mines.
Looking ahead, various UAE entities aim to forge partnerships in African markets. For instance, International Resources Holding has an agreement with South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation, focusing on mining and logistical enhancements. Meanwhile, DP World proposed a five-year, $3 billion plan to amplify Africa’s logistics infrastructure and mineral exportation capabilities. In Kenya, agreements to bolster the mining sector have been established between UAE and local investment bodies.
African Mining Week, scheduled for October 1-3 in Cape Town, represents a pivotal forum for UAE and African stakeholders, promoting cooperation in the mining industry under the theme “From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth.” This event is parallel to the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference, further enhancing opportunities in resource sectors.
The investments from UAE entities into various mining projects across Africa highlight a commitment to enhancing the continent’s mining output and infrastructure. With significant contributions from companies like Ambrosia, AD Ports, and International Holding Company, the trajectory of African mining appears robust. These collaborations promise to improve local economies and foster international trade ties, particularly during events like the upcoming African Mining Week which aims to strengthen industry cooperation.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
