Africa: mining, a lever for economic growth.

African nations rich in mineral resources are strengthening their collaboration with their international partners to optimise the mining value chain. The aim is to attract more investment, thereby accelerating GDP growth and promoting sustainable development. The mining industry's contribution to public finances has increased significantly in recent years, and this trend is set to continue as governments invest more in the sector.

Mali: growth sustained by new projects

Mali aims to collect $1.2 billion in tax revenue from the mining sector in the first quarter of 2025. With the development of projects such as Yanfolia by Hummingbird Resources and the start of production at the Goulamina lithium mine by Ganfeng Lithium, the country continues to expand its mining potential. In 2023, the sector generated around $1 billion, representing 21.5% of the national budget.

Malawi: an integrated strategy to boost the economy

As part of its integrated development strategy, Malawi is speeding up the exploitation and monetisation of its mineral resources. The programme, which focuses on agriculture, mining and tourism, aims to boost exports, create jobs and attract investment. According to the World Bank, the mining sector could account for 12% of Malawi's GDP by 2027, generating $300 billion in export revenues between 2026 and 2040.

South Africa: a consolidated economic pillar

South Africa's mining sector remains an essential component of the economy, accounting for 6% of GDP in 2024 and generating R100 billion in national revenue. With 474,876 formal jobs, or 4.5% of total employment, and exports of 800 billion rand (45% of total merchandise exports), the country is counting on the revitalisation of the gold industry and the exploitation of critical minerals to maintain its economic stability.

Zambia: expansion of copper production and new investments

In Zambia, the mining sector contributes 20% of the country's revenue, 15% of formal employment and 70% of export earnings. An ambitious plan aims to increase annual copper production to 3.1 million tonnes by 2031. In addition, the reallocation of 1,000 seized mining licences and the entry of new investors such as Barrick, Jubilee Metals and Tertiary Minerals will further strengthen the sector's contribution to the national economy.

Botswana: developing the diamond sector

Endowed with immense mining potential, Botswana exploits its diamond resources through strategic international partnerships. Diamond mining currently accounts for 4% of total employment, 30% of GDP and 85% of exports. Increased investment in this sector should help create jobs and boost government revenues.

Ghana: a mining sector in full transformation

Ghana's mining industry plays a key role in the national economy, with gold accounting for 48.4% of GDP in 2024. Small-scale mining operations generated $5 billion in foreign revenue from gold exports in the same year. With a focus on improved regulation, formalisation of artisanal operations and increased investment, Ghana is on track for further expansion of the sector.

With global demand for minerals soaring, driven in particular by the energy transition and the fourth industrial revolution, the outlook for Africa's mining sector remains promising. African Mining Week, to be held from 1 to 3 October in Cape Town, will highlight the growing importance of the sector in economic growth, job creation and income generation. The event will explore the strategies adopted by African countries to maximise the economic and infrastructural benefits of the mining sector, consolidating its fundamental role in the continent's economic future.