Diamantino Azevedo, Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum, and Gas, along with his accompanying delegation, visited De Beers in South Africa to witness the company’s offshore diamond exploration operations.
The visit allowed Angolan officials to gain valuable insights into De Beers’ exploration and extraction technologies, as well as the advantages and challenges of offshore diamond mining, according to a press release from the Ministry.
The visit provided an opportunity for Minister Azevedo and officials from ANRM, Endiama, and Sodiam to examine how offshore diamond mining is conducted.
Azevedo commented on the value of such experiences, stating, “It is always an opportunity to understand the processes, the advantages and disadvantages, and continue exploring the potential of developing Angola’s offshore mining resources.”
Azevedo’s delegation was in South Africa to participate in the 31st Mining Indaba, which wrapped up on Thursday.
The minister emphasized the sector’s ability to attract international investment, holding discussions with major global companies and financial institutions to promote Angola as a prime investment destination.
“The conference has allowed us to meet with nearly all major companies and financial institutions to showcase Angola’s potential and encourage investment,” said Azevedo.
The Business Forum, held on February 4, presented Angola’s mining sector and highlighted successful projects by leading companies such as De Beers, Anglo American, Rio Tinto, and Ivanhoe Mines.
Azevedo spotlighted several projects that demonstrate significant progress, such as those in rare earths, lithium, and copper, key to the global energy transition.
“The mining world now knows what is happening in Angola,” he added, noting upcoming projects like a copper project in Uige and a niobium project in Huila, which are set to begin production soon.
Azevedo also mentioned the ministerial discussions with representatives from India, the UK, France, the Geological Institute of Germany, and Botswana.
These meetings focused on strengthening mining industry cooperation, particularly in diamond sector challenges.
Reflecting on the event, Azevedo concluded, “These have been days of intense work, but they bring us joy.”
