Crucially, the reforms signal a broader strategic pivot away from raw material exports toward beneficiation-led growth models that retain more value domestically. By aligning regulatory frameworks with industrialization objectives, African governments are seeking to create integrated mining ecosystems that support downstream processing, manufacturing and job creation, while maintaining competitiveness in global markets.

These dynamics will be in focus at African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders – scheduled for October 14-16, 2026, in Cape Town, where policymakers, investors and operators will assess how evolving regulations are reshaping Africa’s position as a global mining investment hub.

South Africa: Mineral Resources Development Bill

South Africa is finalizing its Mineral Resources Development (MRD) Bill, with the Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources confirming in October 2025 that public consultations were nearing completion. The bill aims to provide regulatory certainty and stimulate investment across key commodities, particularly platinum group metals (PGMs), where South Africa holds the world’s largest reserves.

Beyond PGMs, the bill supports a national agenda to increase output of chrome, gold and coal, reinforcing mining’s role as a pillar of economic growth and industrial supply chains. If implemented effectively, the reforms could help unlock brownfield expansions and new projects while addressing long-standing investor concerns around policy clarity – an essential factor for sustaining capital inflows into a mature but strategically vital mining jurisdiction.

Senegal: Mining Code Reforms

In Senegal, the government is accelerating reforms to its Mining Code to balance investment attractiveness with enhanced local beneficiation and governance standards. Proposed changes include the introduction of production-sharing mechanisms in mining contracts, strengthened environmental and social safeguards, and a greater emphasis on community development. With mining accounting for a significant share of extractive sector revenues, the revised code is expected to increase state revenues while improving transparency and local economic participation. For investors, Senegal’s approach reflects a growing trend across West Africa: stable fiscal frameworks paired with clearer expectations on social impact and value retention.

Zambia: Local Content Regulations

Zambia is preparing to enact its Local Content Regulation by late 2025 or early 2026 as part of a broader effort to expand domestic participation in the mining value chain. The policy aligns with the country’s ambition to raise copper production to three million tons per annum by 2031 and to position Zambia as a regional hub for copper processing and supply.

The regulation will complement recent legislation such as the Geological and Minerals Development Act, which advances nationwide mineral mapping and formalizes small-scale mining operations. Together, these measures aim to deepen supply chains, build technical skills and reduce import dependence – critical steps for translating higher production targets into broader economic gains.

Ghana: Minerals and Mining Act Revisions

Ghana is revising its Minerals and Mining Act of 2006 to introduce a medium-scale mining license category, a move designed to bridge the gap between artisanal and large-scale operations. The reform is expected to improve access to financing, strengthen regulatory oversight and promote more sustainable mining practices.

The significance of the change is underscored by the contribution of small-scale miners, who account for roughly 40% of Ghana’s gold output and generated $4 billion in export revenues between February and May 2025 alone. By formalizing and scaling this segment, Ghana aims to capture greater fiscal revenues while supporting inclusive growth across mining communities.

Against this backdrop, AMW 2026 will provide a timely platform for stakeholders to engage with policymakers, assess regulatory changes and identify investment opportunities aligned with Africa’s beneficiation and development agenda – ensuring that mining continues to serve as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth across the continent.