The UAE is significantly impacting African mining growth through substantial investments. Ambrosia Investment Holding is enhancing gold production in Ethiopia and Mali, while AD Ports Group is fostering trade via Luanda Port. Additionally, IHC boosts copper output in Zambia, and Emiral Mining advances iron ore projects in Mauritania and Ghana. Upcoming events like African Mining Week further promote UAE-African cooperation in mining.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is playing a crucial role in driving growth within the African mining sector through significant investments. For instance, in February 2025, Ambrosia Investment Holding acquired a 50% interest in Canadian firm Allied Gold’s mining initiatives in Ethiopia and Mali. This acquisition involves a $375 million injection of working capital aimed at boosting gold production by 290,000 ounces in Ethiopia and 400,000 in Mali by 2026 and 2028, respectively. Furthermore, Ambrosia intends to implement solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems at the Sadiola mine in Mali by mid-2026.
In another development, AD Ports Group commenced operations at Luanda Port in January 2025, supported by a $250 million investment plan. As the primary cargo handler in Angola, managing 76% of its cargo volumes, Luanda Port is vital for trade connections between Angola and neighboring countries. The investment will enhance the mining sector, with plans to further increase investment to $380 million to cater to growing logistics demands, projected to rise by 3.3% annually over the next decade.
International Holding Company has also reinforced ore production at the Mopani Mine in Zambia, increasing output from 2.2 million tons to 2.8 million tons as of January 2025. This development is attributed to a $1.1 billion investment initiated in March 2024, which additionally improved copper grade and expanded employment opportunities at the mine.
Emiral Mining is advancing its projects in Africa, fast-tracking its iron ore initiative in Mauritania, with a pre-feasibility study report expected in Q1 2025 following a $40 million exploration expenditure since early 2020. The firm further bolsters Ghana’s gold sector through its majority ownership in Asante Gold Corporation, which is undertaking a $522 million expansion program at its major mines, Bibiani and Chirano.
Looking ahead, several UAE entities are exploring investment opportunities in various African markets. International Resources Holding finalized an agreement with South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation in late 2024 for joint investments in mining, green energy, and logistics projects. Similarly, DP World outlined a five-year strategy with a $3 billion investment plan to enhance logistics infrastructure and streamline mineral exports from Africa. Moreover, in Kenya, the UAE Ministry of Investment and Abu Dhabi’s ADQ sovereign wealth fund signed agreements in 2024 to bolster the local mining sector, aiming to strengthen bilateral trade.
The upcoming African Mining Week—scheduled for October 1-3 in Cape Town—provides a platform for UAE and African stakeholders to enhance cooperative efforts in the mining industry. As a leading event for the African mining sector, it promotes partnerships and project development while highlighting Africa’s potential as a significant global mineral supplier. The event is held concurrently with the African Energy Week conference, where participants can learn about diverse mining investment opportunities.
In conclusion, the investments from UAE entities such as Ambrosia Investment Holding, AD Ports Group, IHC, and Emiral Mining signify a robust commitment to enhancing mining operations across Africa. These initiatives not only aim to increase production and improve infrastructure but also focus on energy security and sustainability. With significant upcoming events like African Mining Week, the future appears promising for collaboration between UAE and African stakeholders in the mining sector.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
