Uranium production is expected to halve by 2030 due to declining yields and underinvestment, creating a significant supply gap just as nuclear energy regains momentum as a reliable, low-carbon power source.  According to a new report by the World Nuclear Association, tripling nuclear capacity by 2050 - which would surpass the 1,200 GW goal agreed by more than 30 countries in 2023 - is feasible, but only if supply and project constraints are addressed. This leaves Africa - home to significant reserves - with a decisive test: can the continent scale uranium production enough to anchor the world’s nuclear expansion? 

Upcoming Uranium Mining Projects to Bolster Global Supply

Accounting for approximately 18% of global uranium production, Africa is strategically positioned to scale output. Projects scheduled to come online from 2026 onwards underscore this potential.Namibia is at the forefront of production growth, with multiple projects under development. These include Deep Yellow’s Tumas Project, expected to be commissioned in Q3 2026 with a projected 30-year mine life. Bannerman Energy’s Etango Project, currently under development, has an expected 15-year operating life, while the Paladin-led Langer Heinrich Mine is targeting full production capacity by the end of 2026.

Beyond Namibia, several other African countries are advancing uranium mining projects. In Tanzania, Russia’s Rosatom is progressing the $1.2 billion Mkuju River Project, designed to produce 3,000 tons of uranium per year, with commissioning expected in 2029. In Malawi, the Kayelekera Mine, owned by Lotus Resources, began operations in August 2025 and is expected to reach full capacity by the end of 2026. Mauritania’s $230 million Tiris project - featuring a production capacity of two million ounces per annum and a 25-year mine life - has already secured two offtake agreements, while Zambia’s Mutanga project, with multiple exploration targets and ongoing drilling confirming significant reserves, is poised to become a game-changer for the country’s uranium supply.

Beyond Uranium: Africa Scales its Nuclear Ambitions

Africa’s role in scaling global nuclear capacity transcends uranium supply, with various countries pursuing nuclear deployment. South Africa - home to the continent’s only operational nuclear facility - is planning a second nuclear power plant, with its latest Integrated Resource Plan (2025) envisioning 5.2 GW of new nuclear generating capacity by 2039. Egypt is constructing its first nuclear project, comprising four large reactors at El Dabaa. The project will supply 10% of national power capacity once completed.

Agreements have also been signed between international partners and Uganda, Kenya, Mali, Namibia, Senegal, Guinea-Conakry, Burkina Faso and Nigeria – all of which are either exploring or planning nuclear deployment. Notably, Mali signed a civil nuclear energy cooperation agreement with Russia in 2025 as part of national agenda to bolster energy access and security using nuclear electricity. These projects showcase how Africa is moving beyond uranium production to position itself as a strategic linchpin of global nuclear development.

The Road Ahead

Despite Africa’s strong potential to become a leading supplier in the global uranium market, the sector continues to face significant investment challenges. While the World Bank’s December 2025 move to restart the financing of projects across the uranium and nuclear value chain provides a welcome boost, much of the market has historically relied on private placements. With numerous projects across Africa seeking financing to accelerate development plans, the upcoming African Mining Week 2026, taking place October 14–16 in Cape Town, offers a critical platform for investment breakthroughs. The event will connect African uranium projects with global investors, facilitating deal signings, strategic partnerships, and capital inflows necessary to unlock the continent’s mineral potential.