The Mining Industry Association of Southern Africa (MIASA) has joined the Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit as a partner. This partnership highlights the significance of regional cooperation in advancing Africa’s critical mineral industry.
In July 2024, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana signed an agreement to upgrade a railway line. This was also to build a new line and a deep-water port in Mozambique. This railway is expected to transport critical minerals to international markets.
Botswana will export copper, manganese, cobalt, and nickel. Zimbabwe will ship platinum, while Mozambique will send graphite. This infrastructure will support the growing demand for these minerals.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2024 summit will be held on November 6-7. It aims to position Africa as the top investment destination for critical minerals. The summit runs alongside the African Energy Week conference from November 4-8.
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Regional Cooperation to Drive Growth
Rachelle Kasongo, Project Director at CMA organizer Energy Capital & Power, emphasizes the growing demand for clean energy technologies. She stated that regional cooperation is key to unlocking the full potential of Southern Africa’s critical minerals.
Since 1998, MIASA has promoted collaboration between the SADC mining sector and private industry. It unites Chambers of Mines from 11 countries to foster best practices and growth.
In May 2024, Wesgro and Namibia’s Environmental Investment Fund signed an agreement to develop green hydrogen infrastructure. This project will connect South Africa with Namibia and enhance regional energy security and economic growth.
DRC, Angola, and Zambia have increased their collaboration. They are working with global partners to optimize the Lobito Corridor for mineral transportation. In July 2024, the Lobito Atlantic Railway began operations at Angola’s Port of Lobito.
South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Petroleum is exploring critical minerals in South Sudan. This partnership aims to boost South Sudan’s position in the global market and advance the mining sector throughout SADC.
At the CMA summit, MIASA will update on its activities. The association will highlight investment and partnership opportunities for global investors in Southern Africa’s energy transition metals sector.