The Mining Wrap

This week’s Mining Wrap covers digital mining initiatives, critical minerals, mine development, strategic transactions and operational updates from across Africa. Highlights include South Africa’s mining modernisation roadmap and new rare earth and lithium developments in Namibia, Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The wrap also covers gold production milestones in Côte d’Ivoire, major corporate transactions involving Anglo American and Allied Gold, and operational updates from Mozambique and Mali.

Mining Technology and Digital Transformation

South African Industry Unveils Mining Modernisation Roadmap

The Minerals Council South Africa and its industry partners have released three reports on artificial intelligence, automation, digital infrastructure and modern mining technologies. The reports outline how these innovations can improve productivity, safety and sustainability. They also provide practical recommendations for accelerating digital transformation across South Africa’s mining sector.

Mining Tech Startup Thunderstone Develops Lightning-Based Metal Separation Technology

US-based mining technology startup Thunderstone is developing a high-voltage electrical discharge process that uses controlled “lightning” to fracture ore. The technology aims to separate valuable minerals more efficiently. It also seeks to reduce the energy required for crushing and grinding, which are among the most energy-intensive stages of mineral processing. Although still in the development phase, Thunderstone’s approach could help lower processing costs and improve metal recovery for future mining operations.

Heavy Mobile Equipment OEMs

Liebherr Expands Ultra-Class Excavator Fleet in Western Australia

Liebherr has strengthened its presence in Western Australia’s gold sector with the delivery of its first R 9600 ultra-class hydraulic excavator to Northern Star Resources’ Super Pit and the deployment of three additional ultra-class excavators at Gold Fields’ Gruyere Mine. The new machines are expected to improve loading efficiency, productivity and fleet performance at both operations.

Critical Minerals and Mine Development

US Backs Madagascar Rare Earths Project

The United States is supporting the Ampasindava rare earth project in Madagascar through funding for early-stage development work. The project is expected to strengthen Western supply chains for critical minerals. These materials are used in electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies and defence applications. The project could also reduce dependence on Chinese supply.

Toyota Deepens African Supply Chain With Namibia Rare Earths Investment

Japan’s JOGMEC will invest up to US$34 million in a Toyota Tsusho rare earth venture in Namibia. The investment strengthens Toyota’s access to heavy rare earth materials used in electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing. It also reinforces Africa’s role in global critical mineral supply chains.

DRC Opens New Export Corridor as Manono Lithium Ships First Overseas Cargo

The Manono lithium project in the Democratic Republic of Congo has exported its first overseas shipment through the Lobito Corridor. The shipment marks a major milestone for one of Africa’s largest lithium developments. The new logistics route is expected to improve export efficiency and strengthen regional supply chains for critical minerals.

Yaouré Mine Produces First Underground Gold

Perseus Mining has produced its first underground gold at the Yaouré Mine in Côte d’Ivoire. The milestone extends the mine’s operational life. It also supports the company’s strategy of increasing production through underground mining while expanding its West African gold portfolio.

Strategic Deals and Investment

Allied Gold Keeps Sadiola Expansion on Track After Zijin Deal Collapses

Canadian miner Allied Gold has abandoned its planned US$3.9 billion acquisition by China’s Zijin Gold after the companies failed to meet closing conditions. Instead, Zijin will acquire a 9.2% stake worth about US$295 million. The investment allows Allied Gold to keep funding in place for the Sadiola expansion in Mali and other growth projects in Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire.

Anglo American Advances Portfolio Restructuring

Anglo American said its proposed US$53 billion merger with Teck Resources is awaiting final regulatory approval in China. The company is also progressing the sale of its 85% stake in De Beers and is reported to be in advanced talks with the Global Diamond Consortium, led by former De Beers CEO Gareth Penny. The proposed De Beers transaction is valued at about US$1 billion (approximately R16.5 billion). Together, the deals form part of Anglo American’s strategy to reshape its portfolio around copper, iron ore and crop nutrients while streamlining its business.

Operations and Market Developments

Mozal Aluminium Smelter Enters Care and Maintenance

South32 has placed its Mozal aluminium smelter in Mozambique on care and maintenance. The decision follows the failure to secure a long-term, commercially viable electricity supply. The closure highlights the growing impact of energy costs and supply security on energy-intensive mining and metals operations across Africa.

Mali Expects Gold Output to Remain Below Historic Levels

Mali’s mining ministry forecasts industrial gold production will remain below 60 tonnes annually through 2029 following regulatory changes introduced under the country’s revised mining code. The outlook reflects continued adjustments by mining companies to higher state participation and taxation.

Chingola Youth Begin Mining at OB19 and OB22 Dumps

Operations have commenced at the OB19 and OB22 dumpsites in Chingola after President Hakainde Hichilema allocated the sites to local youths as part of a small-scale mining empowerment initiative. The programme is being implemented under strict safety, regulatory and anti-child labour measures overseen by the Small Scale Miners Association of Zambia and relevant government agencies.

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