Luanda: The Angolan government, through its Ministry of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, alongside the diamond company ENDIAMA EP, is taking significant steps to bolster its standing in the global diamond market. This initiative includes policies focused on enhancing operational efficiency and increasing production levels.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Angola was the third-largest diamond producer in 2024, with a contribution of over 14 million carats. This placed it behind Botswana, which produced 18.12 million carats, and Russia, which led with 37.3 million carats. IAMA's executive director, Laureano Paulo, has stated that the country is aiming to surpass its 2024 production levels this year, targeting nearly 15 million carats, with the ambition of maintaining its position as the third-largest diamond producer globally.
By 2026, Angola plans to further boost production to 17 million carats through a comprehensive restructuring plan aimed at improving the operational efficiency of certain mines. Attention is being directed towards the Lunhinga mine, currently at risk of bankruptcy, which will receive necessary geological, technical, and technological support for its restructuring.
In addition, efforts at the Yetwene mine will focus on intensifying prospecting campaigns to discover proven reserves and ensure the sustainability of ongoing operations. At present, IAMA controls 54 prospecting and restructuring projects and manages 25 operational mining companies.
