Angola to commence production at first major copper mine

Group 1 - Angola is set to begin production at the Tetelo copper mine, marking its first major large-scale copper mining project, as part of efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependency [1][5] - The Tetelo mine, owned by China's Shining Star Icarus, represents a $250 million investment and is expected to produce 25,000 tonnes per annum of copper concentrate during its initial two-year phase [2] - The mine will initially operate as an open pit and transition to underground mining in the latter half of 2026 [2] Group 2 - Mines Minister Diamantino Azevedo announced the inauguration of the Tetelo mine at a mining conference in Luanda, highlighting its significance as the first underground mine for copper in Angola [3] - Other mining companies, including Ivanhoe Mines and Anglo American, are also exploring opportunities in Angola's copper sector [3] - In 2023, Ivanhoe Mines acquired greenfield prospecting rights covering 22,195 km² for exploration in the provinces of Moxico and Cuando Cubango, indicating growing interest in Angola's mineral resources [4] Group 3 - Angola's entry into copper mining reflects its commitment to reducing reliance on petroleum revenues and enhancing its mineral resources sector [5]