The United Kingdom (UK) is stepping up strategic investments in African mining as part of efforts to secure reliable supplies of critical and traditional minerals needed for the global energy transition and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
With Africa holding around 30% of the world’s critical minerals, the continent presents vast opportunities for UK-based financiers and mining firms. Increased inflows are expected to bolster the UK’s mineral security while advancing African development.
This year’s African Mining Week (AMW) will host the European Partnerships in African Mining: A Mutually Beneficial Future Roundtable, linking European and UK investors with opportunities across Africa. The platform will spotlight UK-backed projects aligned with Africa’s goals to expand mineral production and value addition.
Already, several UK companies are scaling up their presence across the continent. Blencowe Resources is advancing Uganda’s Orom-Cross Graphite Project, underpinned by a $1.5 million boost from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and a five-year offtake deal to meet growing UK graphite demand. Kore Potash, meanwhile, is channeling $2.2 billion into Congo’s Kola Potash Project in partnership with Swiss investor OWI-RAMS GMBH.
In July, the British Geological Survey partnered with Zambia’s Ministry of Mines to release a detailed study mapping the country’s critical mineral potential, positioning Africa’s second-largest copper producer for fresh UK investment. At the same time, Gemfields has secured $30 million to expand ruby and gemstone operations in Zambia, Mozambique, Ethiopia, and Madagascar. Other firms, including Xtract Resources and Endeavour Mining, are deepening operations in Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Zambia.
The UK’s state-backed development financier, British International Investment (BII), has also stepped up its role. Its funding to African companies rose by 40% in 2024 to £1.09 billion, underscoring London’s broader commitment to Africa’s resource sectors.
Against this backdrop, AMW is expected to reinforce UK-Africa mining partnerships, unlock new deals, and drive the continent’s transition from resource extraction to value-added mineral development.
