Angola Extends Mining Rights, Revokes De Beers Prospecting Licence and Approves New Iron Ore Investment Contract
Angola has introduced a series of measures aimed at strengthening the management of its mining sector, including the extension of existing mining rights, the revocation of a diamond prospecting licence and the approval of new mining concessions and investment contracts.
The decisions form part of the government’s broader efforts to improve oversight of the country’s mineral resources and support economic diversification.
The latest measures affect several segments of the mining industry, including diamond exploration, granite extraction and iron ore development.
Together, they highlight Angola’s commitment to unlocking the value of its mineral wealth while creating opportunities for new investment across the sector.
One of the key developments is the extension of mining rights held by Kimpuanza in the Otchinjau area of Cahama Municipality, Cunene Province.
The extension allows the company to continue its authorised operations and maintain investments in the region, supporting ongoing mining activity and local economic development.
In the diamond sector, the government has revoked prospecting rights previously granted to De Beers Angola.
The licence was originally valid until March 2028, making the decision a notable development within Angola’s diamond exploration landscape.
Authorities have also approved mining rights for Socolil to undertake granite exploration activities.
The project is expected to contribute to the growth of Angola’s ornamental stone and industrial rock industries, helping to broaden the country’s mining portfolio beyond its traditionally dominant commodities.
Further advancing the sector, Angola approved a mining investment contract with Lin Feng International for the development of an iron ore project in Cuanza Norte Province.
The agreement covers reconnaissance, prospecting, evaluation and future exploitation activities, positioning iron ore as one of the strategic minerals supporting the country’s industrialisation ambitions.
The iron ore project aligns with Angola’s wider strategy to diversify its economy by attracting investment into mining and other productive sectors outside the oil industry.
Greater development of the country’s mineral resources is expected to support job creation, industrial growth and increased export revenues over the long term.
The latest package of measures also includes administrative actions designed to strengthen concession management and improve regulatory oversight.
Collectively, these decisions reflect Angola’s ongoing efforts to modernise its mining governance framework, improve resource governance and create a more structured environment for future mineral development.
