Africa Resource Bulletin Vol. 1; No: 7

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Compiled by Sreemayukha Nyayapathi

Download Report

South Africa Nigeria Angola Libya Egypt Ghana Democratic Republic of Congo

Gabon Zimbabwe Mozambique China in Africa

SOUTH AFRICA

Electra Mining Africa: Uniting Key Industries in a ‘5-in-1 Trade Show’

Mining Review Africa July 15, 2024

“Electra Mining Africa has built its reputation as a platform for trade; the place where buyers and sellers meet to do business. Deals are made and beneficial partnerships are formed. It’s a massive trade event taking place over five days, contributing to the stimulation of trade in the industrial, manufacturing, and mining sectors of the South African economy.”

“We are also thrilled that Women in Mining South Africa (WiMSA) will be hosting a half-day women in mining workshop, taking place on Women’s Day, and, participating for the first time, WiMBIZ, which represents five hundred female-owned companies in the mining industry, will create a networking space where visitors and exhibitors can talk about business partnering opportunities.”

SOLA and Tronox Pioneer 200MW Renewable Energy Project in South Africa

Mining Review Africa, July 17, 2024

Jonathan Skeen, SOLA Group MD Commercial:

“Today is about celebrating the milestone reached when a project of this size is officially commissioned. These are the first projects of this size that have been commissioned since the licensing cap was lifted. It also symbolises an example of public-private partnerships working in unison to deliver results that benefit all of South Africa.”

Mpho Motho, Managing Director South Africa and KSA, Tronox:

“Tronox’s operations are highly energy intensive and will ensure Tronox’s economic viability and long-term electricity supply affordability, as well as reducing Tronox’s carbon footprint.”

Katherine Persson, Managing Director, SOLA Asset:

“Our projects were constructed about 10 km north of Lichtenburg in a province where we benefit from good solar irradiation, suitable land, and the grid connection that is needed for a project of this size.”

Ian Burger, MD Technical at SOLA:

“To date, SOLA Group has delivered the only operational utility-scale renewable wheeling plants in the country, totalling 268MWp, and has a further 325MWp currently in construction.”

S.Africa’s Transnet gets $1 bln African Development Bank loan

Reuters, July 18, 2024

“The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $1 billion loan for South Africa’s Transnet to aid the troubled logistics firm’s recovery plan, the bank and the company said on Thursday.”

“State-owned Transnet has struggled to provide adequate freight rail and port services in South Africa due to equipment shortages and maintenance backlogs after years of under-investment.”

“This has impacted commodity exports and other sectors such as manufacturing and retail, weakening Africa’s most advanced economy.”

“It will facilitate the first phase of the company’s ZAR 152.8 billion rand ($8.1 billion) five-year capital investment plan to improve its existing capacity ahead of expansion for the priority segments throughout the transport value chain,” the statement said.

One of the Largest Suppliers of Coal to South Africa’s Coal Power Plants to Power Its Coal Mining with Wind & Solar

Clean Technica, July 21, 2024

“One of the Largest Suppliers of Coal to South Africa’s Coal Power Plants to Power Its Coal Mining with Wind & Solar”

“Seriti Green is constructing South Africa’s largest wind farm in Mpumalanga, with the first phase expected to provide 155 MW of power by 2025. This project aligns with Seriti’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and transitioning to renewable energy.”

Marula to acquire lithium and tungsten asset in South Africa

Mining Technology, July 22, 2024

“Under the deal’s commercial terms, Marula Mining will make a cash payment of approximately £125,000 (Ks16.37m) to the existing shareholders of NCLT, and further payments totalling £1.25m on or before 31 July 2024 and 30 September 2024.”

“The NCLT Project comprises more than 16 known tungsten deposits and historical high-grade mining operations.”

“This acquisition not only expands Marula’s portfolio and geographic footprint in South Africa, but also provides an opportunity to build on infrastructure at Blesberg and position ourselves as a fast emerging and growth-focused company in the South African mining landscape.”

“Marula Mining’s due diligence has confirmed the high-grade nature of the tungsten and tantalum mineralisation at the NCLT Project.”

Komatsu’s “Good to Excellence” Programme – beyond mere data and analytics

African Mining Online, July 22nd, 2024

“Currently, there are around 80,000 jobs linked to coal mines and 170,000 in ancillary industries.”

“To this end, April 2023 saw the launch of the Komatsu “Good to Excellence” programme. This programme sought to maximise the impact that could be made on customer’s sites by combining Joy Smart Solutions and in house capabilities with the customer’s operational expertise.”

“In mid-March 2024 the first section at a customer site achieved 1 million production tons, followed by the second section at the end of March 2024. This is a significant milestone and a testament to the effectiveness of working to continuously improve on technical skills and operational excellence.”

“Through Joy Smart Solutions, Komatsu Mining Technologies helps solve customers challenges using data-driven intelligence, collaboration through partnership and experienced-based service execution.”

South32’s South African manganese, aluminium operations deliver solid output

Mining Weekly, July 22, 2024

“Diversified miner South32’s South African manganese operations produced 2.18-million tonnes of manganese in the 2024 financial year, ended June 30, higher than the 2.11-million tonnes produced in the 2023 financial year, and above the two-million tonnes the group had expected to produce.”

“Group subsidiary Samancor Manganese in June entered into a binding agreement for the sale of the Metalloys manganese alloy smelter, in Gauteng, to Khwelamet, an entity jointly owned by Menar and Ntiso Investing Holdings.”

“Meanwhile, the group’s Australian manganese operations recorded a drop in production to 2.32-million tonnes, from 3.55-million tonnes in the 2023 financial year, mainly as a result of the impact of tropical cyclone Megan in March.”

“Aluminium production remained largely unchanged year-on-year, the company reported, with Hillside Aluminium, in Richards Bay, achieving record production, Brazil Aluminium, in Brazil, continuing to ramp up, and Mozal Aluminium, in Mozambique, progressing its recovery plan.”

“South32 reported strong sales in the June quarter, capturing higher commodity prices and releasing working capital to finish the year.”

“We delivered another quarter of improved operating performance, achieving sequentially higher volumes across the majority of our operations, and remaining on track to achieve 2024 financial year operating unit cost guidance. Our performance enabled us to capitalise on stronger commodity prices, lift sales volumes and release working capital, boosting cash generation in the quarter,” South32 CEO Graham Kerr said.”

African Trade Unions to Adopt Strategies on Critical Transition Minerals

IndustriALL Global Union

July 22, 2024

“Actively mobilize at sectoral and national levels for enhanced climate action, and to engage policy makers on the integration of Just Transition plans.”

“The aim is to ensure that during the transition workers and communities do not suffer due to job losses or declining economic activity within their communities, and that inequalities and adverse impacts are addressed. As trade unions we are obligated to make sure that real social dialogue is going on and that we have a well-organized labour market, that includes the informal sector.”

“This forum is part of continuous dialogue for unions on the Just Transition and business and human rights in the energy, mining, and manufacturing industries, that will be affected by the transition to low carbon renewable energy sources.”

“This forum is vital because companies must respect International Labour Organization fundamental rights at work and exercise due diligence across critical minerals supply chains. Further, unions must use collective bargaining as a key strategy to the transformative agenda.”

At the Coalface of Change

African Mining Online, July 23, 2024

“Currently, there are around 80,000 jobs linked to coal mines and 170,000 in ancillary industries.”

“Yet in recent times, our initial ‘green gung-ho’ seems to have slowed down. We still want to do this, but now we’re realising that the shift to go green may not be as rapid as we initially envisioned.”

“Change will happen more gradually than we initially anticipated, but it will happen. Mines have already put environmental frameworks in place, and most are already using renewables to power their operations.”

“As we saw with the mechanisation of mines, you can install powerful technology but if your workers are not aligned with your mission or don’t buy into the need for change, you will struggle to leverage the benefits tech affords or to truly modernise your mines.”

NIGERIA

ReElement and Jupiter Lithium Partner to Commercialise Nigerian Lithium Deposit

Global Mining Review, July 16, 2024

Mark Jensen, Chief Executive Officer of ReElement Technologies:

“We are excited to sign our first large-scale spodumene supplier partnership to be refined in the region. We have a technology that is environmentally safer, more cost-efficient, and able to be deployed throughout the world. This enables partnering nations to maximise the value of their natural resources while advancing job creation through expanded and innovative industrialisation.”

Stephen Davis, Chairman of Jupiter Lithium Ltd:

“This remarkable discovery caps two decades of work in Nigeria understanding Nigeria’s minerals endowment. The scale of the Jupiter lithium discovery has the potential to provide the momentum required to commence Nigeria’s transition from a reliance on oil and gas to clean, solid energy.”

“The downstream processing of the ore to concentrate and carbonate in-region opens the door to a new phase in the development of Nigeria’s energy and mining sector and numerous economic opportunities.”

Establishment of Africa Minerals Development Fund Advocated

Radio Nigeria, July 17, 2024

“The exploitation of the African continent had to stop through a deliberate effort to effectively deploy and utilize the resources accruable to the sector.”

“We need the platform to be able to articulate ideas, cross-fertilize opinions and reach logically deductive conclusions about how to take Africa out of the woods.”

“There is a need for regional engagement to develop the sector and the environment and people must be considered in the process.”

“There are so many people in our country that are jobless but we are busy creating jobs for other people who are taking raw materials from us but it’s time to stop this.”

“With political will, Africa would take ownership of its resources being exploited.”

Rep Gaza Urges Bold Reforms To Transform Nigeria’s Mining Sector

Independent Nigeria, July 17, 2024

“Stakeholders are advocating for a revision in the mining lease duration outlined in section 66 of the Solid Minerals Mining Act 2007, proposing a renewable 10-year term instead of the current 25 years.”

“The current duration of a Mining Lease, set at twenty-five years and renewable every twenty-four years under section 66 of the Solid Minerals Act, is excessively long. This extended timeframe often allows operators to operate with impunity, resulting in significant costs to the nation. To foster greater accountability and responsiveness, it is proposed that the mining lease duration be reduced to ten years.”

“He further suggested that the Community Development Agreement should be flexible, allowing the host community to determine the best use of funds without restricting them to specific line items.”

“The bill grants excessive powers to the minister. It is essential to involve other relevant ministries, particularly those dealing with the environment, in addressing this subject.”

TotalEnergies sells Nigerian onshore oil assets to Chappal Energies for $860 mln

Reuters, July 17, 2024

“TotalEnergies has sold its minority share in a major Nigerian onshore oil joint venture to Mauritius-based Chappal Energies for $860 million, the French energy group said on Wednesday.”

“TotalEnergies was looking to exit its 10% stake in the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), which has struggled with hundreds of oil spills as a result of theft, sabotage and operational issues that led to costly repairs and high-profile lawsuits.”

“The sale includes an interest in 15 licences producing mostly oil, with production netting Total 14,000 barrels of oil-equivalent per day in 2023, the company said.”

“Three additional licences produce mostly gas and currently account for 40% of TotalEnergies’ Nigeria LNG gas supply.”

“This divestment…allows us to focus our onshore Nigeria presence solely on the integrated gas value chain and is designed to ensure the continuity of feed gas supply to Nigeria LNG in the future,” said Nicolas Terraz, president exploration & production, at TotalEnergies.

Stakeholders Demand 10% Benefit for Solid Minerals Host Communities

PUNCH, July 18, 2024

“We suggest an upward review of the extraction net value revenue that goes to the Community Development Association. 10 per cent is recommended and this should be reviewed periodically. The 25-year mining lease arrangement is too long and leaves room for operators to get away with impunity. Instead, a 10-year mining lease is proposed to compel operators to be more responsive and accountable for their actions.”

“The mining sector’s impact on the economy remains suboptimal. Despite new laws, revenue and standards of living improvements have been lacking. The sector’s contribution to GDP was below one per cent in 2015, with a target of three per cent by 2025.”

“We need a heavy rod in the mining sector. We need a vehicle where the government can be a player in the mining sector; a situation where five per cent of whatever is extracted will be given to host communities. If this is achieved, Nigeria will experience astronomical growth.”

NGOs Demand 10% of Mining Revenue for Host Communities in Re-enacted Mining Bill

Premium Times, July 18, 2024

“Non-governmental organisations at the forefront of campaigns for the rights of host communities have urged the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals to further review the extraction net revenue to host communities in the proposed re-enacted Minerals and Mining Bill to 10 per cent.”

“The groups also encouraged the federal government to formalise artisanal and small scale miners so that they can have access to loan facilities and start operating within accepted standards.”

“They frowned at the excessive powers given in the proposed Bill to the Minister of Solid Minerals in Section 4, which it said should be subject to further review as most of the functions proposed are duplications of what the Ministry of Environment should be carrying out.”

“For instance, the group questioned Section 4 (u) of the Bill which proposes that the Minister of Solid Minerals shall have the power to designate a mineral as a radioactive mineral and by radioactive regulations make special provisions for the exploration, exploitation, possession, export or otherwise dealing in the radioactive mineral.”

“Instead, it proposed that the powers of the minister of solid minerals should be shared with other ministries relevant to the subject including environment.”

“They picked holes in specific items listed which the Bill proposed be included in the Community Development Agreement such as educational scholarships and employment opportunities, countering that the agreement should be flexible enough to allow the host community determine exactly what they want or what they want to use funds they get for as their needs may change depending on situations.”

“Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi, said that the Public Hearing is sequel to the Public Policy Dialogue on the Mineral and Mining Act 2007 which was held on Monday 12th – Wednesday 13th February, 2024 where participants overwhelmingly demanded a review of the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 to reflect current realities.”

Nigeria’s Mega Refinery Priced Out of Local Crude, Dangote Says

Rigzone, July 21, 2024

“Nigeria’s giant new refinery is being priced out of local crude, forcing the plant to rely on supplies from abroad, according to its operator.”

“International oil companies and trading houses regularly sell their Nigerian barrels weeks ahead of their loading date to overseas destinations such as India and Indonesia.”

“There, refiners are often willing to pay a premium above the official selling prices for feedstock varieties such as Nigeria’s Bonga grade, which can produce more high-value fuels.”

“Earlier this year, Dangote paid a $1-a-barrel premium above Bonga’s listed price to secure a cargo.”

“Such suppliers have ‘consistently frustrated the company’s requests for locally produced crude,’ Edwin said. When cargoes are offered by the trading arms, they can be at a $2 to $4-a-barrel premium to the official price, he said.”

“These international trading arms are non-value-adding middlemen who sit abroad and earn margin from crude being produced and consumed in Nigeria,” he said. “They are not bound by Nigerian laws and do not pay tax in Nigeria on the unjustifiable margin they earn.”

“New measures introduced by the regulator may see Dangote get more of its crude locally. The watchdog will act as an intermediary between local refiners and producers where a deal can’t be reached on crude supply, and aim to facilitate an agreement on a ‘willing-buyer, willing-seller’ basis.”

Lithium Deposit Set to Become Flagship of Nigeria’s Mineral Resources

Blueprint Newspapers, July 23, 2024

“The Jupiter Critical Minerals Project is poised to become a transformative project for Nigeria, with the potential to establish the country as a regional hub for lithium mining and downstream battery and electric vehicle manufacturing.”

“We are excited to sign our first large-scale spodumene supplier partnership to be refined in the region. ReElement’s technology is environmentally safer, more cost-efficient, and deployable worldwide, enabling nations to maximize the value of their resources while advancing job creation.”

“This remarkable discovery caps two decades of work in understanding Nigeria’s minerals endowment. The scale of the Jupiter lithium discovery has the potential to provide the momentum required for Nigeria’s transition from oil and gas to clean energy, opening doors to new economic opportunities.”

Lawmakers in Nigeria Try to Resolve Rift Between Authorities and Africa’s Richest Man.

Indian Express, July 23, 2024

“Nigerian legislators on Monday began an investigation into the alleged importation of contaminated fuel into the country, part of efforts to resolve issues causing a rift between an oil refinery owned by Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote and the industry regulator.”

“A legislative committee tasked with carrying out the probe is also looking into allegations of the ‘indiscriminate issuance of licenses and the alleged unavailability of international standard laboratories’.”

“The committee called on parties in Nigeria’s petroleum sector to ‘deescalate tensions’ that have been deepened in recent weeks by accusations from the regulator that Dangote was seeking a monopoly in the market and that his refinery’s products are of a low standard.”

“However, the $19 billion facility has been off to a slow start despite opening more than a year ago. It has had to source crude oil from other countries after failing to secure supplies in Nigeria, whose capacity as one of Africa’s biggest oil producers has been impeded by oil theft and chronic corruption.”

“The Dangote refinery’s challenges compounded last week when the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority said its product quality, along with those of other local refineries, was ‘more inferior’ compared to that of imported products.”

“Dangote is requesting that we should suspend or stop the importation of all petroleum products … and that is not good for the market because of monopoly,” said Farouk Ahmed, chief executive of the regulatory agency.”

“Dangote denied both claims and invited lawmakers to inspect the plant where its product was tested. He said he did not receive any incentive from the Nigerian government regarding the refinery. He has also said he was calling off plans to invest in Nigeria’s steel industry.”

“It is not clear what is the origin of the rift between Nigerian authorities and Dangote, whose companies also dominate markets such as cement and flour.”

“Such allegations about low-quality products from the refinery seem ‘odd’ especially when presented without evidence and in the absence of complaints from consumers, Nigerian economist Bismarck Rewane said, reechoing concerns the claims are only a sign of more deep-rooted issues.”

ANGOLA

Kaombo: An Innovative Ultra-Deep-Water Offshore Project in Angola

TotalEnergies, July 19, 2024

“Launched in April 2014, Kaombo is the first project on ultra-deep offshore Block 32, located off the Angolan coast. With 658 million barrels of estimated oil reserves situated at depths of up to 1,950 meters and spread across 800 square kilometers, Kaombo is one of Total’s greatest technical feats ever.”

“In an effort to control costs and in line with its policy of continuous improvement, Total decided not to build new FPSO vessels for this project. Instead, two oil tankers were converted into FPSO units with internal turret – this central structure is the nerve center of the FPSO-, a first for Total.”

“The first FPSO, Kaombo Norte, which started production in July 2018, develops three of the six fields – Gengibre, Gindungo and Caril – and the second FPSO, Kaombo Sul, which produced first oil eight months later, operates on the other three – Canela, Mostarda and Louro.”

“Kaombo is twice as big as any previous TotalEnergies oil project in the Gulf of Guinea. We are going deeper – from 1,400 to 1,950 meters and we are going further – 200 kilometers farther offshore. It is our largest development to date, covering an area nearly eight times the size of Paris.”

Source: TotalEnergies

$443M Acquisition Facility Secured by PAC Capital for Etu Energias’ Angola Expansion

TechAfricaNews, July 19, 2024

“PAC Capital Limited, the investment banking arm of PanAfrican Capital Holdings, has announced the successful completion of a US$443 million Acquisition Facility for Etu Energias. This milestone deal involves the acquisition of Galp’s stake in Block 32, Block 14, and Block 14K offshore Angola.”

“This deal is not just a significant milestone for Etu Energias but also a transformative step towards strengthening local ownership and control of key energy assets in Angola. We are proud to have facilitated this landmark transaction.”

“The conclusion of this Transaction demonstrates the resilience of our company and represents a huge step in our strategy to build a profitable and diversified portfolio. PAC Capital’s expertise and dedication were instrumental in securing this acquisition. Their skilful strategic fund arrangement ensured the successful closure of this complex transaction, positioning us to become a leading player in Angola’s oil and gas sector.”

APPO Secretary General to Discuss Energy Bank Launch, Opportunities for Angola at AOG 2024

Energy Capital & Power, July 22 2024

“The African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) signed the African Energy Bank into implementation in June 2024, kickstarting a new era of oil and gas financing in Africa.”

“Given the catalyzing role hydrocarbons play in driving economic growth and energy security, the bank offers newfound avenues to finance and move projects forward.”

“With an initial start-up capital of $5 billion – raised from $83 million in subscription fees by its member states – the bank’s implementation comes as Angola opens 29 blocks for exploration – including the country’s first-ever marginal fields.”

“APPO Secretary General Omar Farouk Ibrahim will speak at the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference taking place on October 2-3 in Luanda.”

“Angola itself has ambitions to become a regional petroleum hub, given its stable production and renewed focus on downstream infrastructure development.”

LIBYA

Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery in Talks with Libya to Secure Oil

Reuters, July 22, 2024

“Nigeria’s Dangote refinery is in talks with Libya to secure crude for the 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) plant and will also seek Angolan oil, a senior executive said, as it seeks to overcome problems with domestic supplies.”

“The biggest offtakers are the two big traders Trafigura and Vitol and BP and, to some extent, even TotalEnergies. But all of them are saying they are taking it to offshore,”

“This acquisition significantly enhances Angola’s energy security by empowering local companies to own strategic petroleum assets, thereby strengthening the nation’s energy sector. It marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to boost local participation and leadership in the oil and gas industry in Angola.”

“Aliko Dangote has denied that, saying the sulphur level was higher when production started, but had fallen to 88 ppm and would sink to 10 ppm in early August as output rises.”

Saipem Wins Contract for Libya-Italy Pipeline

Energy Capital & Power, July 22, 2024

“Saipem, a multinational oilfield services company, has secured a contract for managing the Greenstream Pipeline, a 520 km-long pipeline linking Libya to Italy. The project involves subsea intervention services for the offshore and onshore sections of the pipeline terminals located in Mellitah, Libya, and Sicily, Italy.”

The contract’s scope includes:

“Specialized Engineering Services: Ensuring asset integrity.”

“Survey Data Management: Integrated handling of survey data.”

“Critical Spares and Repair Interventions: Providing necessary maintenance and repair services.”

“The work will be spearheaded by Saipem’s Sonsub division, which specializes in underwater technologies, services, and robotics. Saipem has been involved with the pipeline since 2008, offering asset integrity, inspection, maintenance, and emergency pipeline services.”

EGYPT

Egypt Voices Support for Establishing Joint Geological Platform Between BRICS Countries

Egypt Oil & Gas, July 23, 2024

“Egyptian geological survey authority leaders joined their counterparts from throughout the BRICS alliance in calling for the establishment of a united geological platform for exchanging expertise, technological updates, and knowledge.”

“The main structure of the platform includes a coordination council, joint project committee, technology transfer board, working group on basic minerals, expert group, and target agency structures.”

“Future cooperation prospects include geological exploration, regional geological studies, and strategic minerals.”

“The parties discussed work on the supply and processing of complementary resources, and a proposal to form a joint map of mineral reserves held by all member states.”

“The authority is in the process of signing a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Egyptian and Russian sides that includes many programs for knowledge and technological exchange and raising the efficiency of workers in the sector.”

GHANA

Shalatin Mineral Resources targets to deliver 1.2 tons of gold to Central Bank of Egypt in 2024

ZAWYA, July 17, 2024”

“Shalatin Mineral Resources is seeking to deliver 1.2 tons of gold to the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) in 2024, Chairman Sherif El-Shahawy told Asharq Business.”

In 2023, the company delivered 750 kilograms of gold worth around EGP 2.6 billion, El-Shahawy added.”

“El-Shahawy also mentioned that construction of a mining industrial complex for mining in Aswan has started, and is expected to be complete by May 2025 at a cost of EGP 350 million.”

“In the first half (H1) of 2024, Shalateen Mineral Resources increased its gold deliveries to the CBE by approximately 23% year on year.”

Ghana’s Bauxite and Lithium Prospects: Government Tables Mining Leases in Parliament

AI Circle, July 18, 2024

“The Ministry submitted a lease agreement with Ashanti Bauxite Limited Company to mine bauxite in the Nyinahini Block 2 Area in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region. A lease agreement with Barari DV Ghana Limited was also presented to explore lithium at Ewoyaa in the Central Region.”

“The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, introduced the agreements. Speaker Alban Sumana Bagbin has referred the matter to the Committee on Lands and Natural Resources for detailed review. The Minority has expressed concerns about the procedural aspects and is calling for a thorough examination before granting approval.”

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

Mineral-rich DRC Province Suspends Mining Activities

Barron’s, July 19, 2024

“Authorities in one of the most mineral-rich provinces in east DR Congo announced on Friday the suspension of all mining activities to ‘restore order’ in the sector.”

“The governor of the province Jean-Jacques Purusi ‘wants to restore order in the exploitation of minerals,’ a member of the governorate’s communications unit, Danny Bashige, told AFP.”

“All activities related to mining are suspended throughout the province,” it read.

“All companies, businesses and cooperatives ‘are required to leave the sites and places of operation within 72 hours.'”

“We welcome the decision of the provincial governor and invite him to go all the way (to restore order),” said Tibere Kajemba from the Governance and Peace Observatory (GOP).

Cape Town Mining Summit to Highlight the DRC’s Critical Mineral Investment Prospects

Energy Capital & Power, July 19, 2024

“The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)’s state-owned mining firm, Gecamines, and Canadian company Ivanhoe Mines have resumed operations at the high-grade Kipushi zinc-copper mine. The mine is expected to produce up to 140,000 tons of zinc concentrate this year and up to 278,000 tons annually over the next five years.”

“The DRC is seeking investors to unlock over $460 trillion worth of untapped mineral deposits, including the world’s largest cobalt reserves and its significant lithium, nickel, and rare earth mineral resources.”

“The DRC seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for critical minerals globally – which is expected to triple by 2030 and quadruple by 2040 – for economic growth, with the industry accounting for 30% of GDP and over 90% of the country’s export revenue.”

GABON

Gabon Oil Company DG to Present Investment Opportunities at African Energy Week (AEW) 2024 Amid Anticipated Production Growth

ZAWYA, July 18, 2024

“Gabon has set an ambitious target to increase production to 220,000 barrels per day (bpd). The country is promoting investment in on- and offshore acreage while creating opportunities for marginal field development to achieve this goal.”

“In February 2023, the NOC acquired the Gabonese assets of private equity firm Carlyle – the owner of oil and gas company Assala Energy. The deal includes seven onshore production licenses, a pipeline network and the Gamba export terminal.”

“In November 2023, oil and gas company BW Energy made a commercial discovery at its Hibiscus South satellite prospect offshore Gabon. The discovery was estimated to contain approximately 16 million barrels of oil in place. In March 2024, the company announced that production had officially commenced – averaging between 5,000 and 6,000 bpd.”

“Ongoing projects include Perenco’s $1 billion Cap Lopez LNG terminal, set to come online in 2026. The project will produce 70,000 tons of LNG per annum and 25,000 tons of LPG. Additionally, the company’s LPG plant in Batanga – which came online in December 2023 – produces 15,000 tons of LPG per annum.”

ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe Central Banker Stockpiles Gold to Bolster ZiG Currency

Mining.com, July 16, 2024

“Zimbabwe’s new central bank Governor John Mushayavanhu is building up the nation’s gold reserves to help support the ZiG currency, taking steps that have so far helped curb exchange-rate volatility and an inflation spiral.”

“In the 100 days that I have been in office we have increased those reserves by about 30%. We are now on about $370 million worth of reserves,” Mushayavanhu told Bloomberg in an interview from his office in the capital, Harare. “These have been increased through royalties that we are collecting from mining companies, we are making steady progress. By the time we get to the end of the year we should be talking of no less than three tons of gold.”

“The ZiG – short for Zimbabwe gold — is the nation’s sixth attempt at having a functioning local currency in the last 15 years. It was launched on April 5 backed by 2.5 tons of gold and $100 million in foreign currency reserves, replacing the Zimbabwean dollar that had lost 80% of its value against the greenback in 2024.”

“Mushayavanhu has committed not to print any ZiG unless the central bank has the reserves to back it, as past currency collapses were linked to increased money supply as the central bank issued debt to finance government spending.”

“The governor said the ZiG will become the nation’s sole currency once all the fundamentals are right. President Emmerson Mnangagwa suggested earlier this month that could be by 2026.”

“The number one risk is the El-Nino drought, which is one of the worst droughts ever,” said Mushayavanhu. “It means we will require more forex to import staple crop and that might put pressure on the exchange rate.”

Kuvimba Mining House Pioneers Blockchain-Based Gold Traceability in Zimbabwe

CoinTrust, July 17, 2024

“Kuvimba Mining House, the leading gold producer in Zimbabwe, has announced the deployment of a blockchain-based mine-to-market traceability system for its gold production.”

“The implementation of this traceability system is intended to bolster Kuvimba’s reputation and adherence to global standards.”

“The traceability system, branded as Comstack, employs advanced blockchain technology to track gold from its source at the mines to its final destination in international markets.”

“The introduction of blockchain technology in gold traceability by Kuvimba Mining House is poised to significantly impact Zimbabwe’s mining sector.”

“Kuvimba Mining House’s adoption of the Comstack blockchain-based traceability system marks a significant milestone in the mining industry’s efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.”

“As the system becomes more widely adopted, it is anticipated to have a lasting positive impact on the global perception of Zimbabwe’s gold production, reinforcing the country’s commitment to upholding international standards in mining.”

Zimbabwe’s Kuvimba Secures $310 Million Deal for Lithium Mining

ChemAnalyst, July 19, 2024

“Zimbabwe’s state-owned Kuvimba Mining House has announced a significant $310 million agreement with a consortium of British and Chinese investors for the construction of a lithium concentrator.”

“The deal includes a binding build, operate, and transfer (BOT) agreement for establishing a 3 million metric ton per year ore processing plant at the Sandawana mine. The lithium concentrator is expected to be operational within 18 months and will produce an annual output of 600,000 metric tons of lithium concentrate.”

“The consortium’s participation underscores the significant international interest in Zimbabwe’s lithium resources. The country’s lithium sector has attracted over $1 billion in investments since 2021, primarily from Chinese battery metal firms.”

“Kuvimba’s latest project reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing Zimbabwe’s mining industry and enhancing its role in the global supply chain for critical minerals. The new concentrator will not only add value to Zimbabwe’s lithium resources but also contribute to the local economy through job creation and technological advancements.”

MOZAMBIQUE

India’s BPCL Expects $3.5-$4 Billion Cost Escalation for Mozambique LNG Project

Natural Gas World, July 22, 2024

“BPRL Ventures Mozambique, a subsidiary of India’s BPCL, along with two other Indian state-owned companies, ONGC and Oil India, own a combined 30% stake in the TotalEnergies-backed project.”

“The Mozambique LNG export project, which has been under force majeure since 2021 due to attacks by Islamic State terrorists, could see a cost escalation of $3.5 billion to $4 billion due to the delay, the management of Ind…”

Source: TotalEnergies

No More VAT Exemptions for Oil and Soaps

Club of Mozambique, July 22, 2024

“The government has reiterated that it will no longer be exempting cooking oil, sugar, and soap from Value Added Tax (VAT), saying that the intended purposes of the exemption were not being achieved.”

“The end of the VAT exemption on the mentioned products occurred on December 31st of last year. Its introduction had had as its main objective, influencing the industry to invest in national raw materials. However, during the period of exemption, refineries continued to import more than one million tons of crude soybean, sunflower, and palm oil, worth around 88.7 billion meticais, with the argument that domestic production is insufficient.”

“The government will not return to VAT exemption, as in the previous format, but will instead focus on incentives to foster companies which extract and refine oil from domestic raw materials.”‘

CHINA IN AFRICA

Illegal Mining: Nigerian govt arraigns eight Chinese nationals

Premium Times Nigeria, July 12, 2024

“The Nigerian government has arraigned eight Chinese nationals over alleged illegal mining activities.”

“The suspects were charged before a Federal High Court in Abuja.”

“The arraignment is part of efforts by the Nigerian government to combat illegal mining and enforce mining regulations.”

“The Chinese nationals are accused of operating mining sites without the necessary licenses and permits.”

“The Nigerian authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal mining operations to protect the country’s mineral resources.”

Opinion: Russia, China and US battle for influence in Africa

Economic Times, July 19, 2024

“Multiple countries in the West African Sahel and beyond have seen Russian-linked coup d’etats since Kremlin-linked military commanders took power in Mali in 2021, followed by similar events in Burkina Faso, Sudan, Chad and Niger.”

“The US has been working to entrench its influence elsewhere in the continent, widely seen as a response to both recent Russian actions and a much longer-running Chinese campaign of influence and investment.”

“The US designated Kenya Washington’s first ‘major non-NATO ally’ on the continent, while Washington has also been engaged in a concerted effort to build relations with Angola, previously a major Russian and Chinese ally.”

“Russian efforts have found fast success… In both Niger and Chad, the Pentagon appears to have hoped to find ways to maintain its military presence on the ground – but swiftly faced demands from the now Russian-backed military leadership of both nations for the small number of US forces to leave.”

“China’s investment and loans to Africa increased again last year with a particular focus on locking down mineral resources, essential for China’s energy transition and efforts to maintain dominance of the global battery market.”

“Russian-backed regimes have demanded the departure of US troops… While Niger attended the US-organised Africa Chiefs of Defence meeting in Botswana, Chad was not on the list released by US officials.”

“The battle for influence in Africa is if anything escalating in 2024, with plenty of new fronts to come.”

Communities lament challenges from Chinese mining companies

Zimbabwe Situation, July 19, 2024

“Strengthening Extractives and Natural Resources Transparency and Accountability through Community Action and Parliament Oversight (STACAP), aimed to empower communities to monitor mining revenue and hold companies accountable.”

“Communities near mining areas in Zimbabwe have raised concerns about Chinese-owned mining companies, accusing them of lacking transparency and accountability. Issues highlighted include bypassing community consultations, poor working conditions, and environmental damage.”

“Chinese mining companies have a significant footprint in Zimbabwe, driven by China’s global resource acquisition strategy. This interest intensified in the early 2000s due to Zimbabwe’s need for investment and China’s demand for raw materials.”

“The China-Zimbabwe relationship has been politically significant, with the Zimbabwean government viewing China as a reliable partner. However, communities living near Chinese mining operations have consistently criticised them for environmental degradation, lack of transparency, and potential non-compliance with local regulations.”

Africa’s trade deficit shrinks as exports to China surge – but experts say it won’t last

SCMP, July 20, 2024

“China’s imports from Africa rose by 14 per cent year on year to reach US$60.15 billion in the first half of 2024.”

“Chinese exports to the continent fell marginally by 2.3 per cent to US$84.85 billion. Observers attributed the boost in imports from Africa to the increased production of minerals, rising commodity prices and the depreciation of key African currencies.”

“Resource-rich African countries have seen heavy investment from Chinese companies as they ramp up mineral production amid the global push for green energy.”

“China’s largest trading partner in Africa is South Africa. In the first half of the year, the value of that trade hit US$27.5 billion.”

“South Africa’s exports to China are mainly minerals and metals, but more recently China has started buying products such as soybeans, wine, rooibos tea, aloe vera gel and citrus fruits.”

“China is importing more food products from Africa as a result – avocados from Kenya and Tanzania, fruit from South Africa and Zimbabwe, coffee from Ethiopia and chillies from Rwanda.”

“China has signed trade deals with dozens of African countries, waiving tariffs on 98 per cent of the taxable items originating from those nations.”

“Higher production volumes are also playing a part… The depreciation of the Nigerian naira, and to a lesser extent, the South African rand and Kenyan shilling, have likely played in to reduce Chinese exports.”

“African exports to China would probably weaken somewhat in the second half of the year, mainly due to lower copper exports.For Africa to service its debt to China, it needed a trade surplus, not a trade deficit. China’s big priority right now is exporting its way out of its domestic property slump… I would expect it to try to boost exports to Africa over the coming year.”

China-Africa Cooperation to Expand into New Sectors: UN Advisor

Bastille Post, July 20, 2024

“China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching a record 282.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2023.”

“At the moment, China is Africa’s largest trading partner and that is expected to continue. China is also the largest investor when it comes to infrastructure.”

“I strongly believe that China and Africa will further deepen their cooperation, in terms of trade, in terms of economy, in terms of global governance and in terms of some of the mutual concerns.”

“I think China’s economy will continue to beat expectations. And by that I mean it will continue to rise, it will continue to grow. And I think China will remain one of the key contributors to global economic growth.”

FAO Launches New Project on Land Tenure Governance

FAO, July 22, 2024

“FAO launches new project to improve governance of tenure and reduce conflicts linked to cross-border transhumance in Cameroon, Chad, and the Central African Republic.”

“FAO supports Local Consultations in the Participatory Process of Preparing a National Land Policy in Chad.”

“Chinese investments in agricultural land in Africa: Phase II of the project ‘Supporting the Implementation of the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries, and Forests.'”

“A study found that Chinese enterprises are engaging in responsible agriculture, following both Chinese and international guidelines. The project aims to improve understanding and guidance on land tenure in Tanzania and Mozambique, with a focus on enhancing sustainable economic growth.”

China, South Africa still driving chrome supply globally

Mining Weekly, July 22, 2024