Discussions will highlight high-impact investment prospects throughout Africa’s mining value chain and underscore the pivotal role that Middle Eastern companies – particularly from the UAE – are playing in accelerating sector growth. By boosting capital investment and forging strategic partnerships, Middle Eastern investors are advancing exploration, production and infrastructure development across the continent.

In February 2025, the UAE’s Ambrosia Investment Holding acquired a 50% stake in Allied Gold’s mining projects in Ethiopia and Mali, committing $375 million in the process to boost gold production. Dubai-based Emiral Resources, through its stake in Asante Gold Corporation, is supporting the expansion of Ghana’s Bibiani and Chirano Mines with a $522 million investment, while also developing an iron ore project in Mauritania. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Manara Minerals is in advanced talks to acquire a 15-20% stake in First Quantum Minerals’ copper and nickel assets in Zambia in a deal worth $1.5 to$2 billion. Furthermore, Zambia and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement in January 2025 to cooperate on mineral resources, while Kenya and the UAE are undertaking joint mining ventures as part of a 2024 agreement.

Other Middle Eastern firms – including AD Ports Group, International Resources Holding and DP World – are making significant investments in Africa’s mining ecosystem, particularly in logistics and mineral production. Notably, International Resources Holding invested $1 billion in Zambia’s Mopani Mine in 2024, resulting in increased copper grade, ore production and employment.

As Africa seeks to unlock the full potential of its mineral wealth, deepening cooperation with Middle Eastern stakeholders is crucial to expanding Africa’s mining capacity and infrastructure and strengthening its position in the global market. African Mining Week will serve as the ideal platform to foster this collaboration, connecting both regions, showcasing investment opportunities and shaping the future of mining across the continent.

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.