Angola President João Lourenço will attend the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024, where he will deliver a keynote address.

"His presence marks a significant step of progress for Angola and its mining industry as it seeks to increase investment and attract more companies to explore the country's potentially rich mineral resources," the Mining Indaba states.

It points out that Angola is the fourth-largest diamond producer in the world and that the Angolan government has in recent years implemented regulatory reforms which have made it an attractive and best-destination country for foreign investors. The result has seen diamond major De Beers sign two mineral investment contracts in 2022 for diamond exploration and mining in Angola.

Other major players such as Anglo American, Rio Tinto and Ivanhoe Mines have also more recently invested in the Angolan minerals and mining industry.

"Importantly, Angola is looking to diversify and expand its commercial mining potential beyond diamonds to include critical minerals and gold in particular, which will bring a significant change in context to its mining sector.

"The Angolan government is committed to provide an investor-friendly environment for those interested in exploring the potential of its minerals sector while also creating sustainable economic growth for all its citizens. The presence of President Lourenço at Mining Indaba 2024 demonstrates this commitment, as well as his eagerness to promote international collaboration between business leaders keen on investing in Angola’s minerals industry," the organisers comment.

The theme for Mining Indaba 2024, which will be held in Cape Town from February 5 to 8, is ‘Embracing the power of positive disruption: A bold new future for African Mining’. The steps taken by Angola to encourage mining investment support the theme of disruption and shine a light on the positive steps this African country is taking to bring greater mineral wealth to the country.

Mining Indaba provides a platform for delegates to meet from around the world with interests spanning across finance, technology, sustainability and energy – all essential components of the modernising mining industry.

"President Lourenço’s presence at the event will offer invaluable insights into how the industry can work together towards achieving collective goals and sustainable growth across the African continent," the organisers say.