Angola Warns Gold Miners in Cabinda Over Non-Compliance
Most mining companies operating in Angola’s Cabinda province, particularly in the gold sector, risk losing their exploration licenses due to non-compliance with government regulations, warned Angola’s Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, Jânio Corrêa Víctor, on Saturday.
Speaking to the press during a two-day working visit to Cabinda, Víctor revealed that out of 11 licensed gold projects in the province, only one has delivered tangible results, while the rest remain inactive.
He noted that Angola continues to face a significant gold production deficit, making it difficult to achieve its mining sector goals despite the number of companies granted exploration concessions.
“The majority of these companies occupy land without developing it,” Víctor said. “If they do not change their approach, their licenses will be revoked and awarded to investors who are serious about advancing the sector.”
He further criticized companies that remain in the “exploration phase” indefinitely, often for three, five, or even six years, without progressing to actual production. This, he warned, contributes to the rise of illegal gold mining in the region.
During a meeting with industry operators, Víctor also emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility in mining activities.
Site Visits to Mining Operations
As part of his visit, Víctor toured several mining sites, including the Luezi Mining Complex in Buco-Zau, the Lombe Mining project in Lufo, and the phosphate factory under the “Monbos” brand.
Tobias Zunze, director of the Luezi Mining Complex, highlighted Cabinda’s vast gold reserves, expressing optimism that the province could significantly boost production and create more jobs for local youth.
With an investment of approximately $18 million, the Luezi Mining Complex currently produces around six kilograms of gold per month.
Víctor reaffirmed that Cabinda remains one of Angola’s richest regions in terms of gold reserves, holding significant potential for future development.
