China

Africa’s largest mining partner is deepening its African presence through mining rights, infrastructure development and financial assistance, committing $51 billion in new investments over three years. Chinese companies account for over 8% of Africa’s total mining output, operating 72% of the cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) - the world’s largest cobalt producer. Furthermore, Chinese investments are driving Zimbabwe’s lithium beneficiation agenda, financing the majority of over eight lithium concentrate and sulphate processing facilities developed in the country since 2023. Meanwhile, in Zambia, Chinese investors are playing a crucial role in the country’s strategy to increase copper production to three million tons per year by 2031 through involvement in a series of mineral production rights. China’s expansion of the TAZARA railway, linking Tanzania and Zambia to global markets, also indicates its commitment to develop regional corridors enabling the trade of African minerals

Australia

Similarly, Australia is also expanding its contribution to Africa’s mining sector growth with more than 170 companies active in 35 countries and total mining assets exceeding $60 billion as of 2024. Australian investments span copper, rare earths, gold, graphite, zinc and uranium in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Mali and Burkina Faso.

https://energycapitalpower.com/cma-to-unpack-australias-growing-role-in-african-mining/

Canada

Canada’s mining footprint in Africa is also expanding, with more than 98 companies operating over $37 billion in assets across the continent. Backed by its first-ever Africa Strategy launched in March 2025, Canada is strengthening cooperation with Africa through investments in infrastructure.

The U.S.

The U.S. is also scaling up its presence in Africa’s critical mineral landscape in a bid to reduce dependence on China. Through companies such as mining startup KoBold Metals, the U.S. is investing in copper and cobalt projects in Zambia and the DRC, while the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation is supporting projects in Angola, Botswana and Malawi. Additionally, the U.S. is backing the Lobito Corridor project - a strategic trade route connecting Angola, Zambia, and the DRC - to secure access to critical minerals and enhance regional connectivity.

Amidst the growing trend of global markets seeking to increase mining sector cooperation with Africa, African Mining Week – scheduled for November 2026 – will connect global investors and policymakers with emerging opportunities within the continent’s mining value chain. The event will feature high-level panel discussions, project showcases and country spotlights, providing insights on lucrative opportunities within Africa’s mining space.