Angola is on the verge of opening its maiden gold refinery, currently being built at the Viana Industrial Complex in Luanda.
The facility is expected to begin operations in the second half of 2024, with 23 young Angolans currently undergoing training in Portugal, according to a ministerial source.
The Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil, and Gas, responsible for this initiative through the Angolan company GEDANGOL, reports that construction progress on the Gold Refinery has reached approximately 35 percent.
In parallel with the construction, the ministry is actively involved in the procurement of essential equipment from abroad and the initial certification process.
Simultaneously, a training program for Angolan technicians is ongoing, with 23 young individuals specializing in various fields receiving training in Porto, Portugal.
Upon commencing operations in this industrial sector, the local processing of all domestically produced raw gold will be possible, adding value to the material and fostering the growth of complementary services associated with the industry.
The Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil, and Gas underscores the vital role that gold refining plays in various economic, financial, and industrial sectors.
It anticipates that the implementation of this project will significantly contribute to the economic diversification process, increased employment opportunities, and enhanced tax revenue collection for the benefit of the state.
Several Angolan provinces, including Cabinda, Cuanza Norte, Bengo, Hulla, and Huambo, have reported gold occurrences, and mining companies holding exploration rights are already in operation.
The foundation stone for Angola’s inaugural gold refinery was laid in 2022 by Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil, and Gas, Diamantino Pedro Azevedo.
