Sinomine Resource Group, a Chinese state-owned mining conglomerate, is aggressively expanding its presence in Southern Africa through strategic investments in critical minerals, including copper, lithium, and platinum.
In a significant move, Sinomine committed $500 million to develop a lithium refinery in Zimbabwe over the next three to five years. Building on this momentum, the company has acquired Dundee Precious Metals’ smelter in Namibia, further solidifying its regional footprint and downstream processing capabilities.
China Strengthens Grip on Southern Africa’s Critical Minerals
Sinomine already holds significant investments in platinum group metals (PGM) in South Africa, including stakes in the Nkwe Platinum Mine, Mason’s Platinum Mine, and a 51% stake in Anglo American Platinum’s Tumela Mine.
The acquisition of the Tsumeb smelter from Dundee Precious Metals represents a key milestone in Sinomine’s strategy to expand downstream operations. This purchase will allow the company to process and refine base metals, copper, and other essential minerals, further enhancing its African integrated operations.
In Zimbabwe, Sinomine acquired the Bikita Minerals lithium project, one of the largest lithium deposits in the world. This move solidifies China’s position in the global lithium market and secures a crucial component for electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
Acquisition of Dundee Precious Metals’ Namibian Smelter a Regional Push
Following the acquisition of the Tsumeb smelter in Namibia, Sinomine Resource Group made two key appointments to strengthen its leadership team. Zebra Kasete(pictured), the former Managing Director, transitioned to the role of Executive Vice President of Business Development for the smelter . With over 30 years of experience in mining and smelting, Kasete brings valuable expertise from his previous roles at Rio Tinto’s Rossing Uranium ,Murowa Diamonds and Sengwa Colliery.
Meanwhile, Logan Lou Yonggang has taken the reins as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter . These strategic appointments underscore Sinomine’s commitment to leveraging local expertise and global leadership to drive growth and success in the region.
According to Namibia’s Mining and Energy, Kasete will remain on the board of Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter alongside Chairman Wang Zhenhua, Wang Pingwei, Clara Bohitile and Lou Yonggang while continuing his term as President of the Chamber of Mines of Namibia until 2025.
Editor Fulufhelo Lloyd Nedohe @lloydnedohe_ on X
