African Mining Week 2025 to unpack the DRC cobalt market prospects, global significance
CAPE TOWN, South Africa/ -- As the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) seeks to maximize the financial and economic returns from its cobalt reserves – considered some of the largest worldwide -, the upcoming African Mining Week will spotlight the country's expanding investment opportunities across the cobalt value chain.
Taking place October 1-3, 2025, in Cape Town, the event is Africa's premier gathering of mining stakeholders. A dedicated panel discussion, titled Cobalt Opportunity: DRC's Strategic Position in the EV Revolution, will unpack the DRC's pivotal role in the global cobalt market, detailing how the nation is boosting value addition, addressing global demand while creating lucrative prospects for international investors.
African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
A key ingredient for lithium-ion batteries, cobalt is witnessing a surge in demand as countries worldwide accelerate the deployment of energy transition technologies such as renewable energy, electric vehicles (EV) and energy storage. The World Bank posits that global cobalt consumption could increase to 344,000 tons in 2030, representing a 9.6% annual increase between 2017 and 2030. Accounting for 70% of global cobalt production, the DRC is strategically positioned to leverage its comparative advantage in the industry to increase revenue, drive development and consolidate its position as a global cobalt supplier.
Given this potential, the country is enhancing its role in the global EV value chain by promoting local value addition and establishing direct supply agreements. The country partnered with Zambia and the African Export-Import Bank to develop regional Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for EV manufacturing, leveraging local cobalt resources to build a competitive industrial base. Supporting this vision is the creation of the Congolese Battery Council, which facilitates SEZ development, and a $350 million cobalt smelting plant under development in partnership with U.S.-based Delphos International. Similarly, Congolese firm Buenassa - backed by $3.5 million in initial funding from the government – is also constructing a hydrometallurgical plant in Lualaba province, set to produce 30,000 tons of copper cathode and 5,000 tons of cobalt sulphate annually by 2027.
In addition to infrastructure advancements, the DRC is proving an attractive environment for foreign investment. Ivanhoe Mines reported revenues of $973 million in Q1, 2025 - a 57% year-on-year increase - at its Kamoa-Kakula Copper-Cobalt mine, demonstrating the potential for strong returns within the country. Meanwhile, China's CMOC Group, the world's top cobalt producer, achieved record-breaking production in 2024 from its Tenke Fungurume and Kisanfu mines and is on track to exceed those volumes in 2025, further strengthening the DRC's global footprint in the EV revolution.
Amid these developments, African Mining Week will connect global investors with the DRC's rapidly evolving cobalt sector and its broad array of high-return opportunities. The panel discussion will outline investment opportunities, challenges and upcoming initiatives.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
SOURCE
Energy Capital & Power
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
10 hours ago
- Zawya
Cassa Depositi e Prestiti and SACE provide EUR250 Million to Africa Finance Corporation
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) ( the continent's leading infrastructure solutions provider, has secured a landmark EUR 250 million 10-year term loan facility from Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) the Italian Financial Institution for Development Cooperation. The transaction is backed by a guarantee from SACE, the Italian insurance and financial group fully owned by the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, covering up to 80% of the facility amount. The financing builds on engagement at the Mattei Plan-Global Gateway summit, attended by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen, CDP, SACE and AFC, where the parties confirmed their intent to collaborate. The facility is structured to cultivate Italian supply chain opportunities in infrastructure and renewable energy generation, including the supply of components for the Lobito Railway Corridor - a commercial railway line that will run through Angola and extend to the borders of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This long-term facility deepens AFC's strategic partnership with both CDP and SACE, while reinforcing its mandate to mobilise high-quality, long-tenor capital in support of delivering sustainable infrastructure across Africa. "Cassa Depositi e Prestiti confirms its role as a strategic partner in supporting infrastructure projects with a high social and economic impact in Africa. With this financing - said Dario Scannapieco, Chief Executive Officer of CDP - we are strengthening business and technological relations between Italy and Africa, enhancing talent and innovation. We are convinced that investing in strategic projects not only creates new opportunities for our companies but also helps to build lasting and shared ties capable of fostering growth and well-being for local communities." 'We are proud to contribute to the involvement of Italian companies in the transport and logistics sector to realise a significant strategic project like the Lobito Railway Corridor within the Mattei Plan,' said Alessandra Ricci, CEO of SACE. 'This collaboration reaffirms SACE's commitment to promoting new connections for Italian companies seeking to diversify their exports and embrace new growth opportunities.' ' Our partnership with CDP, further strengthened by SACE's guarantee, exemplifies the power of blended finance in unlocking capital for infrastructure development in Africa,' said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member and Head, Financial Services, AFC. ' The Lobito Corridor is a transformational project that will open new trade routes for resources, support regional industrialisation, accelerate job creation and strengthen Africa's position in global value chains, while delivering long-term, inclusive growth. ' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). SACE Media gallery: Media Enquiries: Communications Africa Finance Corporation Email: communications@ SACE Press Office ufficiostampa@ CDP Media Relations Tel: +39 06 42213990 Website: Follow CDP on: LinkedIn: X: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: About Lobito Corridor Rail Project: The railway line will be approximately 830 km long and will connect Chingola in Zambia to Luacano in Angola with the aim of facilitating the transportation of agricultural products, minerals and consumer goods. The greatest opportunities for the Italian supply chain in the region lie in sectors such as energy, renewables, transportation and logistics. About CDP: Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is the National Promotional Institute which has been supporting the Italian economy since 1850. The main goal of CDP is to accelerate the industrial and infrastructural development of Italy to boost its economic and social growth. CDP focuses its activities on sustainable development at local level, supporting the innovation and growth of Italian enterprises, also in the international arena. It partners local authorities, in a financing and advisory capacity, to create infrastructures and improve services of public value. CDP also participates actively in international cooperation initiatives to realize projects in developing countries and emerging markets. Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is entirely financed by private capital, through the issuing of Postal Savings Bonds and Postal Savings Passbooks, and through issues on national and international financial markets. About SACE: SACE is the insurance and financial group controlled by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, specialising in supporting the growth of Italian companies through a wide range of solutions to facilitate export and innovation, including financial guarantees, factoring, risk management and protection, advisory services and business matching. With a network of 11 offices in Italy and 13 worldwide in target countries for Made in Italy products, SACE serves over 60,000 companies, supporting their growth in Italy and globally, with a portfolio of insured operations and guaranteed investments totalling EU 267 billion across approximately 200 foreign markets. About AFC: AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC's approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa's infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth. Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in core infrastructure sectors. AFC has 45 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion since its inception.
Zawya
12 hours ago
- Zawya
From Discovery to Delivery: Building a Legal Framework for Namibia's Midstream Infrastructure (by Rachel Mushabati)
By Rachel Mushabati, Senior Associate Attorney&Country Head – CLG Namibia ( Namibia's recent offshore oil discoveries mark a pivotal moment in the country's energy sector. With major players such as Shell, TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy, and Galp uncovering significant reserves, Namibia is poised to become a key oil producer. However, while exploration and production activities have gained momentum, the midstream sector; involving transportation, storage, and refining of petroleum, remains underdeveloped. A strong legal framework for midstream infrastructure is essential to ensure that Namibia maximizes economic benefits, attracts investment, and builds a sustainable energy industry. CLG Legal and Business Advisory, with its extensive advisory experience across Africa, is uniquely positioned to support this transition. CLG has advised on midstream regulatory frameworks, infrastructure structuring, and investment promotion strategies in various jurisdictions, and brings this expertise to the Namibian context. Understanding Midstream Infrastructure and Its Importance Midstream infrastructure serves as the critical link between oil extraction and the end consumer. This includes pipelines, refineries, storage facilities, and specialized port infrastructure that facilitate the transportation of crude oil and natural gas. Without adequate midstream infrastructure, Namibia risks becoming an exporter of raw crude without capturing additional value through processing and distribution. A robust midstream sector can boost job creation, industrial development, and energy security, making it a strategic national priority. Market studies from other African producers have shown that well-developed midstream infrastructure can contribute up to 30% more in local value addition compared to direct crude exports.[1] In Ghana, for instance, domestic refining and pipeline infrastructure contributed significantly to its GDP growth in the petroleum sector between 2016–2022. Namibia has the opportunity to tap into similar economic potential.[2] Existing Legal Framework and Gaps Namibia's petroleum sector is primarily governed by the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act 2 of 1991 and the Petroleum Products and Energy Act 13 of 1990. These laws focus largely on upstream activities and the regulation of downstream petroleum products. However, there is no dedicated midstream regulatory framework. The absence of clear midstream regulations means there is little guidance on ownership structures, investment incentives, and operational guidelines for pipelines, storage, and refining facilities. For example, Nigeria's midstream sector prior to the Petroleum Industry Act (2021) faced significant bottlenecks due to the absence of a clear regulatory framework, particularly regarding third-party access and tariff setting for pipeline infrastructure. These issues led to investor reluctance and underinvestment, which were only addressed after the establishment of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Nigeria Petroleum Industry Act, 2021). Lessons from Other Oil-Producing Countries Namibia can draw inspiration from countries that have successfully developed midstream infrastructure through effective regulation. Norway, for example, has established a robust midstream legal framework that ensures state participation in pipelines and refineries while promoting private investment.[3] Ghana has a dedicated Petroleum Midstream Regulatory Authority that oversees infrastructure development and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards. Similarly, Nigeria's Petroleum Industry Act (2021) introduced the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which provides clear guidelines on pipeline ownership and operations. The Role of Key Stakeholders in Strengthening Namibia's Legal Framework To unlock the full potential of the midstream sector, coordinated action is required among various stakeholders: Government Ministries and Regulators: Responsible for drafting legislation, setting environmental and safety standards, and issuing licenses. Private Sector and Investors: Bring in capital and technical expertise, while also needing legal certainty to invest confidently. State-Owned Entities: Can serve as infrastructure operators and strategic partners in public-private partnerships. Civil Society and Communities: Essential for ensuring environmental accountability and social license to operate. Legal Advisory Firms: Provide technical assistance in drafting laws, structuring transactions, and navigating policy reform. Strengthening Namibia's Midstream Legal Framework To address the existing gaps, Namibia must develop a comprehensive legal framework that clearly defines the governance of midstream activities. A dedicated Midstream Act would be a crucial first step, providing legal certainty on pipeline infrastructure, refineries, storage, and transportation. Encouraging public-private partnerships can drive midstream development while ensuring local participation. Establishing an independent regulatory authority will help enhance transparency, streamline approvals, and enforce compliance. Additionally, Namibia should implement policies that prioritize local employment and skills transfer, ensuring that midstream investors contribute to national workforce development. Environmental and safety standards must also be strengthened to mitigate risks associated with pipeline integrity, spill prevention, and emergency response. To further attract investors, tax breaks, duty exemptions, and streamlined licensing processes should be introduced to make Namibia a more competitive destination for midstream infrastructure development. Conclusion For Namibia to fully capitalize on its oil discoveries, it must establish a strong midstream legal framework that facilitates the efficient transportation, storage, and processing of petroleum resources. Without this, the country risks losing significant economic value and remaining dependent on crude exports. By adopting best practices from other oil-producing nations and implementing strategic legal reforms, Namibia can create a thriving midstream sector that benefits both investors and citizens alike. CLG stands ready to support this transformation, leveraging its pan-African expertise in midstream regulation, infrastructure development, and legal advisory. Our team has been instrumental in shaping midstream legal regimes across West and Central Africa, and we are committed to helping Namibia build a regulatory foundation that supports sustainable growth and long-term prosperity. [1] Ruben, R., Kuijpers, R.,&Dijkxhoorn, Y. (2022). Mobilizing the Midstream for Supporting Smallholder Intensification. Land, 11 (12), 2319. [2] Oxford Business Group. 'Ghana's energy production targets and exploration attract investment'. Retrieved from [3] Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (2021). 'Midstream Regulatory Framework and Investment Guidelines'. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.
Dubai Eye
12 hours ago
- Dubai Eye
GCC policy dialogue to promote women's leadership in workforce
A policy dialogue on women's economic empowerment concluded in Dubai, with GCC countries backing efforts for joint legal reforms, childcare investment and enhanced knowledge exchange across institutions. Led by the UAE Gender Balance Council and the World Bank, the workshop brought together leaders from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to share strategies aimed at expanding women's participation in the workforce, particularly through support for childcare and maternity policies. The UAE emphasised its initiatives to enhance gender balance in the labour market, Saudi Arabia outlined advances in workforce participation and social insurance for women and Bahrain showcased national upskilling programs and empowerment strategies. A joint brief was presented to guide future cooperation, marking a key step toward building inclusive, opportunity-driven economies across the region. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, said, 'Women's economic empowerment is not simply a policy objective, it is a force for transformation. It strengthens institutions, drives innovation and ensures that progress is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable." Mona Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, highlighted that "regional collaboration drives progress". "By uniting to promote gender balance, we amplify our collective impact and ensure that every woman in the GCC has the chance to contribute to shaping a more inclusive future," she added. Since its establishment in 2015, the Council has led policies, legal reforms and partnerships aimed at embedding gender balance across national institutions and economic systems.
