Angola has inaugurated its first large-scale copper mine, the Tetelo project, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil. Developed with a $250 million investment from China’s Shining Star Icarus, the mine is expected to produce approximately 25,000 metric tons of copper concentrate annually during its initial two years, starting with open-pit operations before transitioning to underground mining in late 2026, as reported by Reuters.
Located in southern Angola, Tetelo is strategically linked to the rehabilitated Benguela Railway, which connects mineral-rich regions to the Lobito port. This infrastructure enhances export capacity and aligns with Angola’s broader plan to reduce dependency on oil revenues, according to Discovery Alert.
The project positions Angola to capitalize on the rising global demand for critical minerals such as copper, lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Analysts note that Tetelo could attract further foreign investment and strengthen the country’s mining sector, supporting industrialization and economic growth, Africa Business Insider reported.
While modest in global terms, Tetelo represents a significant step for Angola’s integration into the international mineral supply chain. Its success highlights growing Chinese interest in African mining ventures and could encourage other nations on the continent to develop their mineral resources, bolstering Africa’s role in the global copper market, Metal.com noted.
