Africa-Press – Angola. The Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, on Thursday in Cape Town, South Africa, stated that Angola had achieved virtually all the objectives set for its participation in Mining Indaba 2026.
Speaking to the press, the minister summarized Angola’s participation in the International Conference on Mining in Africa, Mining Indaba 2026 — one of the world’s largest mining sector events — and highlighted progress in negotiations for the exploration of copper, gold, and critical minerals, as well as the strengthening of international cooperation.
He highlighted the meetings with Barrick, a company involved in gold projects, and BHP, one of the world’s largest copper mining companies, as key advances in attracting foreign investment for the development of critical and strategic minerals.
‘We have already agreed on the next steps with both BHP and Barrick,’ he said, adding that talks had also been held with several other international companies.
According to the minister, the Angolan delegation focused its efforts on attracting companies interested in exploring minerals such as copper and gold, as well as promoting licenses already granted to national companies facing difficulties in implementing projects.
Angola also held bilateral talks with government delegations from the United States, Australia, Canada and France.
Discussions with the United States focused on the development of critical minerals, while talks with France centred on mining cooperation and strengthening the relationship between the Geological Institute of Angola and the BRGM (the French geological institute).
As a world leader in mining, Canada was identified as a potential partner in sharing expertise to support the growth of small and medium-sized Angolan mining companies. Australia, a country with a strong tradition in the sector, was another potential partner, with whom there were two moments of interaction, including participation in a forum organized by the Australian embassy.
Currently, there are at least two Australian companies operating in Angola, one in the phosphate sector and the other in lithium and rare earths.
Minister Azevedo stressed that, in addition to mineral resources, Angola has invested in strategic infrastructure such as railways, energy, roads, and ports — factors that strengthen the country’s competitiveness.
‘All this helps to improve the country’s image and demonstrate to investors that Angola is a country full of opportunities,’ he said.
The International Conference on Mining in Africa, also known as Mining Indaba, took place from 9 to 12 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), under the motto ‘Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships”.
The event brought together over 10,500 delegates, including investors, mining companies — 13 of which were Angolan — and government representatives. There was a strong focus on cooperation, sustainable development, and attracting investment to the African continent.
