From Copper to Gold and Cobalt, Companies Spearhead Africa’s Mining Investment Surge

Cape town: Africas mining sector is witnessing a transformative shift, as companies invest heavily in exploration, new mine development, and mineral processing to meet global demand for strategic minerals. This surge in investment aims to bolster production capabilities and position African nations as key players in the global mineral supply chain.According to African Press Organization, African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, recognized as the most influential mining conference in Africa, will convene in Cape Town from October 14-16. The event will spotlight companies leading the charge in this investment wave, with discussions centered on projects, partnerships, and financing that are shaping the continent's mining future. Key projects will be showcased from major mineral-rich countries such as Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ghana, and South Africa.One of the frontrunners in this investment cycle is KoBold Metals, which commenced the $2 billion Mingomba Copper Project in Zambia in May 2026. Thi s project is set to become one of Zambia's largest mining developments, aiming to produce 300,000 tons of copper annually in the early 2030s. This development aligns with Zambia's strategy to boost national copper production to three million tons per year by 2031. KoBold Metals is also pioneering the use of artificial intelligence and advanced geological modeling to expedite mineral discovery in the DRC and Burundi. At AMW 2026, KoBold Metals CEO Mfikeyi Makayi will elaborate on how technology-driven exploration is transforming mineral discovery across Africa.Makor Resources is another key player contributing to Zambia's copper expansion. The company is making strides in the Muli and Kangili copper projects, with a $30 million investment aimed at enhancing Zambia's status as Africa's second-largest copper producer. Brooke Bibeault, CEO of Makor Resources, will discuss the company's strategic approach to exploration and development.In the DRC, Buenassa is advancing efforts to enhance domestic mineral proce ssing. CEO Eddy Kioni will present the company's integrated mining and processing strategy, which includes a multi-metal processing facility in Lualaba Province. The refinery, currently in the feasibility stage, aims to produce 30,000 tons of LME-grade copper cathode and 5,000 tons of cobalt per year during its first phase, with plans for significant capacity expansion in future phases.Ghana's mining sector is also under the spotlight, with Typhoon Greenfield Development focusing on the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. CEO Kwaku Afrifa Nsiah-Asare will discuss best practices for formalizing artisanal mining and attracting private investment to boost production in one of Africa's top gold-producing regions.In South Africa, Gold Ore is working to rejuvenate the nation's gold sector through its Turnbridge underground and New Kleinfontein opencast projects. Senior Geologist Sean Meadon will discuss how these projects, slated for first production in 2026, align with efforts to expand South Africa's gol d output amid favorable market conditions.AMW 2026 aims to bring together producers, governments, investors, and technology providers to explore the collaborative efforts, financing, and innovations necessary to convert Africa's rich mineral resources into sustainable economic growth and industrial development.