Production at Angola’s first significant copper mine begins

Mines Minister Diamantino Azevedo announced on Wednesday that Tetelo, Angola’s first significant copper mine, will shortly start producing as part of the oil-rich African nation’s ambitions to diversify into clean energy materials.

In the first two years of operation, the $250 million mine, which is owned by China’s Shining Star Icarus, is anticipated to generate 25,000 metric tons of copper concentrate yearly. An open-pit operation will be the first stage, and starting in the second half of 2026, underground mining will take place.

At a mining convention in the capital Luanda, Azevedo said, “I am honored to announce the inauguration of the Tetelo mine, which will take place in a few days.”

“This event will mark the start of production at the first underground mine for this very important metal,” he stated.

Anglo American (AAL.L) and Ivanhoe Mines (IVN.TO) both open new tabs and have copper exploration projects in Angola.

In addition to battery metals like lithium, cobalt, or nickel, copper is seen to be crucial for the switch to renewable energy.