Luanda: Angola is set to become the first country in Africa to explore niobium after completing the prospecting of the mineral this year in the village of Bonga in the central province of Huila.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Quilengues municipal administrator Adriano Alberto Pedro announced that the exploration of the mineral will begin at the end of this year. This follows the completion of the relocation and compensation process for over 400 families residing in the planned area. The extraction project, led by the Chinese operator Niobonga, has already yielded 40,000 tons of niobium with a total investment of 150 million U.S. dollars.
Pedro highlighted that this venture could transform the region into a new economic benchmark for Angola, allowing the country to join a select group of nations exploiting this rare and valuable mineral on the international market. All necessary equipment and technical resources have been installed at Bonga, and a qualified workforce is in place. The exploration covers approximately 400 square kilometers in the Bonga and Chivila mountains, with a contract signed for a renewable 22-year term, potentially extending to 40 years.
Initial tests have confirmed the quality of the ore, setting the stage for production to commence this year. Besides niobium, the area also holds potential for phosphate and iron extraction. The project is expected to generate new tax revenue, create hundreds of jobs, and stimulate related sectors such as service provision, commerce, and transportation.
The concessionaire has committed to supporting structural projects in local communities, focusing on education, health, water, and road infrastructure. Despite challenges, over 400 families have received relocation compensation totaling two million kwanzas per household, with the process nearing completion.
Pedro emphasized that Quilengues is on the verge of becoming a significant economic center for both the Hula province and Angola. He views niobium exploration as a pivotal development for the southern region of the country.
The strategic mineral niobium is crucial for manufacturing turbines, spacecraft, aircraft, electronics, and power plants due to its high resistance to extreme temperatures. It is especially valuable for creating high-strength alloys, superconductors, and aerospace components.
Globally, Brazil leads with the largest niobium reserves, holding over 98.2% of the world's known and mineable reserves. Canada and Australia follow in second and third place, respectively. Angola joins countries like Russia, Saudi Arabia, and several African nations, although others have yet to begin mining niobium.
Quilengues, located 143 kilometers north of Lubango, the capital of Hula Province, has an estimated population of 102,052.
