Business
AS more mining projects reach FID stage, Africa’s mining industry is entering a new phase of expansion, with the capital strengthening the continent’s role in global supply chains while driving infrastructure development, job creation and long-term economic growth.
With global demand for critical minerals expected to triple by 2030, FID announcements across Africa are set to accelerate, underpinned by the continent’s 30% share of energy transition metal reserves. The expanding pipeline of FIDs underscores the strong momentum building across the sector.
Rio Tinto approved a $473 million investment decision to extend the life of the Zulti South Project to 2050, strengthening South Africa’s position as a long-term supplier of mineral sands including zircon and ilmenite, which are essential inputs for construction, ceramics and advanced manufacturing industries.
Meanwhile, Tharisa approved a $547 million FID for an underground expansion at its Bushveld Complex operations. The project is expected to deliver over 200,000 ounces of platinum group metals, PGMs, annually alongside more than two million tons of chrome concentrate, reinforcing the country’s position as the world’s leading supplier of PGMs.
Beyond these projects, a broader pipeline of developments is advancing toward investment decisions across the continent. Major projects including the Manono Lithium Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Gorumbwa Platinum Project in Zimbabwe, the Diamba Sud Gold Project in Senegal and the Kabanga Nickel Project in Tanzania are progressing toward potential FIDs as investors position themselves to capture rising demand for battery minerals and critical metals.
Investment Momentum Ahead of African Mining Week
This growing pipeline of investment decisions and project developments will be a key focus of the upcoming African Mining Week 2026, taking place October 14–16 in Cape Town. The event will connect investors, project developers and government regulators to explore partnership opportunities and investment prospects across Africa’s mining value chain.
Through high-level discussions and project showcases, the conference will examine how rising FIDs are driving production growth, strengthening infrastructure development and advancing Africa’s strategy to transform its mineral wealth into long-term economic value.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
A.I
April 9, 2026
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