Geopolitical changes and increasing global demand for critical minerals are expanding the number of partners in Africa’s mining sector as international markets secure supply chains. Demand for lithium, cobalt, copper and rare earths is expected to quadruple by 2050, and with a 30% share of the world’s energy transition metals, Africa has become a global investment hub, reinforcing the continent’s plans for industrialization and economic growth.
China
Africa’s largest mining partner is deepening its presence in Africa through mineral rights, infrastructure development and financial support, with $51 billion in new investments over three years. Chinese companies account for more than 8% of Africa’s total mine production and operate 72% of the cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the world’s largest cobalt producer. Additionally, Chinese investment is driving Zimbabwe’s lithium beneficiation program, funding the majority of more than eight lithium concentrate and sulphate processing facilities developed in the country from 2023 onwards. Meanwhile, in Zambia, Chinese investors are playing a key role in the country’s strategy to increase copper production to 3 million tonnes per year by 2031 through involvement in a range of mineral production rights. China’s Tazara railway expansion linking Tanzania and Zambia to global markets also demonstrates China’s commitment to developing regional corridors to enable trade in African minerals
Australia
Similarly, Australia is increasing its contribution to the growth of Africa’s mining sector, with more than 170 companies operating in 35 countries and total mining assets of more than $60 billion in 2024. Australia’s investments span copper, rare earths, gold, graphite, zinc and uranium in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Mali and Burkina Faso.
Canada
Canada’s mining operations in Africa are also expanding, with more than 98 companies managing more than $37 billion in assets across Africa. With its first Africa Strategy launched in March 2025, Canada is strengthening cooperation with Africa through investments in infrastructure.
US
The United States is also expanding its presence in Africa’s vital mineral resources to reduce dependence on China. The United States is investing in copper and cobalt projects in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo through companies such as mining startup KoBold Metals, and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation is supporting projects in Angola, Botswana and Malawi. Additionally, the United States supports the Lobito Corridor Project, a strategic trade route connecting Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to ensure access to critical minerals and strengthen regional connectivity.
As the global market increasingly seeks to expand mining cooperation with Africa, Africa Mining Week, scheduled for November 2026, will connect global investors and policymakers with new opportunities within the continent’s mining value chain. The event will feature high-level panel discussions, project showcases and country spotlights, providing insight into the lucrative opportunities in Africa’s mining sector.
