The Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, stated on Wednesday in Uíge Province that the start of copper extraction at the Tetelo mine marks a decisive step in Angola’s integration into the global network of critical minerals essential for the energy transition.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Tetelo mine, in the municipality of Maquela do Zombo, the minister noted that copper is currently one of the world’s most strategic metals, playing a key role in the production of electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels, smart power grids, and the development of the digital industry.
“Whoever controls the copper supply chain holds the key to the green economy of the 21st century,” the minister emphasized, highlighting the transformative potential of the project for the country’s economic future.
Diamantino Azevedo stressed that Angola intends to move beyond being merely an exporter of raw materials, focusing instead on local processing and refining of mineral resources.
For that reason, he said, the opening of the Tetelo mine — the first copper mine established since independence — is increasing both domestic and foreign companies’ interest in exploring copper and other strategic minerals.
He also noted that Angola is positioning itself within the Lufilian Arc, one of the largest copper belts in the world, where exploration of lithium, rare earths, phosphates, and niobium is already underway in several provinces.
Diamantino Azevedo concluded that this development reinforces the government’s strategy to diversify the national economy and position Angola as a relevant player in the global green economy, contributing to sustainable and technologically advanced growth.
About the Tetelo Mine
Located in an exploration area of 2,900 square kilometers, the Tetelo mine has an estimated lifespan of 14 years, with a processing capacity of 4,000 tons of ore per day, resulting in a daily production of around 300 tons of copper concentrate, following a progressive growth path.
The project also includes continued geological prospecting and research activities to extend the mine’s operational life and identify new mineralized deposits.
An initiative of Shining Star Icarus (SSI), SU, Limited, construction of the mine began in 2021, including open-pit mining operations and the installation of processing infrastructure. The second phase, scheduled for 2026, will mark the start of underground mining operations.
With an investment exceeding 250 million US dollars, the project represents one of the most significant private investments in Angola’s post-independence mining sector, directly and indirectly generating over 3,000 jobs, benefiting local communities and contributing to the diversification of the national economy.
Currently, the enterprise employs 1,523 workers, the majority from Maquela do Zombo and surrounding communes, reflecting SSI’s commitment to valuing local human capital.
Source: Angop
