Luanda - The Angolan government has said it continues to work to diversify mineral production, through the exploration of multiple value chains, development and modernization of geological activity, with the aim of increasing the contribution of this sector to more than 2% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
According to the Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, Jânio Corrêa Victor, there are actions in place to support producers to increase diamond and gold production, with a view to expanding the value chain.
Speaking about the program for the development and modernization of geological activities, during the 14th thematic session promoted in Luanda by the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technology and Social Communication, the official pointed to the exploitation of iron, ornamental rocks and other minerals as factors contributing to the expansion of mining production.
The Secretary of State also said that investments are being made to ensure the use of non-metallic mineral resources, namely phosphates and potassium for the production of fertilizers and limestone for soil correction.
Jânio Corrêa Victor reinforced the intention to support producers to increase ornamental stone production, encourage an increase in the number of quarries and to build the Namibe Ornamental Stone Development Pole by 2026.
The official underscored that besides the two large mines, Catoca and Luele, the intention is to create over 27,000 direct jobs in the country's different provinces through the implementation of varied diamond projects.
Also on the sector's agenda there is the preparation of a specific project to improve geological knowledge of the minerals needed for the energy transition, including, lithium, nickel, zinc, niobium, tantalum and rare earth minerals. HM/QCB/AMP
