Despite the departure of a significant consortium in June, Uganda persists in developing an oil refinery, now seeking partners from Africa, the Middle East, and China. Ali Ssekatawa, from the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, shared that the Uganda National Oil Company is leading the development during the partner search. Talks with Algeria's Sonatrach and other entities have commenced. Following the Albertine Graben Refinery Consortium's (AGRC) failure to secure funding for the $4.5bn project, a new partner is sought. While some milestones are achieved, a 2027 commissioning deadline is considered optimistic.
Despite Sudan's ongoing conflict, oil exports have surged due to steady production from South Sudan, which utilizes Sudan's pipeline to the Red Sea. May exports doubled March's figures. South Sudan's reliance on oil revenue may deter conflict escalation, but dependency on the Sudan pipeline presents long-term risks. Alternate export routes are recommended.
Romy Andrianarisoa, chief of staff to Madagascar's President, and Philippe Tabuteau were charged with bribery offences in the UK. They allegedly sought a bribe from Gemfields, a British mining company, for operational licenses in Madagascar. Arrested in London, they face 10 years imprisonment if convicted.
https://www.barrons.com/news/madagascan-president-s-top-aide-charged-with-bribery-in-uk-97465fe3
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted successful airstrikes against criminals and terrorist hideouts in various regions. Targets included oil thieves in Niger Delta, IPOB Camp in Anambra, and terrorists near Sambisa Forest. NAF's actions aimed to curb threats and degrade the adversaries' capabilities.
https://guardian.ng/news/naf-airstrikes-hit-oil-thieves-terrorists-others/
Mayor Eshanakpe Israel opposes releasing MT FAISEL, an oil vessel suspected of oil theft in Nigeria. This vessel was seized by Tantita Security Services (TSS) on behalf of the government. Israel urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss calls for the vessel's release, stating it endangers national interests by emboldening oil thieves in the Niger Delta region. He also suggests penalizing the vessel's undisclosed managers for dubious activities in the sensitive Niger Delta waters.
https://dailytrust.com/oil-theft-why-fg-should-not-release-arrested-vessel/
Simon Ekpa, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, warns oil-producing companies in the South-East to adhere to the Monday sit-at-home order. He refutes claims of its cancellation and threatens severe consequences for non-compliance. Ekpa demands the release of Nnamdi Kanu and autonomy for Biafran territories.
https://punchng.com/ekpa-warns-oil-companies-against-ignoring-sit-at-home-order/
Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, a company partly owned by South African businessman Brian Myerson, has reportedly offered to sell a stake in its Namibian green hydrogen project for over N$3 billion. The Namibian government had selected Hyphen two years ago for a N$190-billion green hydrogen project. Concerns arise as it's suggested Hyphen might not have the resources to complete the project. Further, there are controversies surrounding the selection of Hyphen and corruption accusations against the National Planning Commission director, Obeth Kandjoze. Skepticism is also directed at Myerson, who has a history of legal and ethical allegations against him. This recent development further adds to the ongoing skepticism surrounding the green hydrogen initiative in Namibia.
https://www.namibian.com.na/hyphen-offers-global-oil-companies-n3b-stake/
Japan and Zambia bolster cooperation in mineral exploration vital for electric vehicles. The partnership focuses on copper, cobalt, and nickel. With satellite technology, they aim to fortify supply chains and counterbalance China's African expansion. Japan seeks economic security and diversified relations with resource-rich nations.
https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/business/economy/20230812-129252/
With its former mining capital in disrepair, the central African nation is seeking new investment to help reverse its past mistakes
https://www.ft.com/content/a578165b-2096-4117-b649-aeb2cdc715f3
Zambia aims to transform its mineral trade landscape with initiatives introduced by Mines and Minerals Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe. These plans prioritize faster procurement, payments, and equitable participation of women and youth in mining. Kabuswe highlights challenges faced by small-scale miners, such as delayed payments. Prospective investors must now empower women and youth. The UN’s HUANG XIA emphasizes the broader economic benefits of inclusivity in mining. This new direction, supported by international entities, looks to set a global standard.
Rising mining accidents prompt Zambia's Mines Minister, Paul Kabuswe, to emphasize worker safety. At the 16th Mining First-Aid Competition, Kabuswe champions safety's role in sustainability. Lubambe Copper Mine wins, while Chamber of Mines President, Godwin Beene, advocates for broader safety program inclusion.
https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/08/14/chamber-of-mines-promotes-first-aid-for-safety/
The Association of Mine Suppliers and Contractors praised the government's policies for stimulating growth in the mining sector. Association President Coster Mwaba acknowledged the positive impacts of these policies, noting the opening and expansion of several mines. The Association also appreciated efforts to unlock Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines, promising patience for the best deal.
Coperbelt businessman, George Jere, urges the Zambian government to register the mineral sugilite in the national gazette. He emphasizes the challenge of curbing illegal mining and suggests the inclusion of new minerals like lithium. Jere also discusses the Vedanta Resources' potential return to Konkola Copper Mine (KCM).
The United Mine-Workers Union of Zambia reports increased Tuberculosis among miners due to poor labor and safety adherence, especially in Chinese-owned mines. Union General Secretary Yosamu Nyirongo urges the government to boost funding for law enforcement in the sector. He commends larger firms for their safety compliance but emphasizes stricter oversight for smaller operations.
Minister Collins Nzovu criticizes foreign investors for not upholding safety and environmental standards in Zambia's mining sector. In Mumbwa District, he observed violations, including pollution concerns. Nzovu emphasized relocation of processing plants near water sources due to potential chemical impact on humans and aquatic life. Notably, only one plant complied with PPE requirements.
Guyana's parliament approved the Petroleum Activities Bill, giving the natural resources minister significant authority over its burgeoning oil sector. Replacing the 1986 Petroleum Act, this legislation applies to upcoming projects, including an oil block auction. It grants the minister power to oversee licenses, enforce laws, and handle oil storage and transportation. Opposition calls for a Petroleum Commission were rejected.
Fatoumata M'Balou Sanogo has been appointed as the general manager of PETROCI, Côte d'Ivoire's national oil company. With over two decades of experience in the oil sector, Sanogo has worked with renowned firms like ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, ENI, and Halliburton. She's an alumna of INP-HB and holds an Executive MBA. Having held significant roles globally, Sanogo founded MAROIL, a consultancy specializing in the oil sector, collaborating with countries like Mauritania, Senegal, and even PETROCI. Her appointment is timely, as Côte d'Ivoire is set to begin exploiting the Baleine deposit by the end of 2023.
https://www.aip.ci/cote-divoire-aip-fatoumata-mbalou-sanogo-nommee-directrice-generale-de-petroci/
Houston Natural Resources Corp, now Cunningham Natural Resources Corp, is purchasing a 10% stake in Kharrouba Copper Company. Valued at US$60 million, KCC operates in Morocco, planning expansions and a focus on cobalt exploration. The company, led by Scott M. Hand, meets the increasing copper demand fueled by green energy and electric vehicle production.
Jubilee Metals has strengthened its executive team by appointing Neal Reynolds as CFO and Ricus Grimbeek to lead its Zambian Copper Strategy. CEO Leon Coetzer praises their expertise, emphasizing the company's expansion goals in Zambia and South Africa. Pedja Kovacevic transitions to chief of strategy.https://www.miningweekly.com/article/jubilee-appoint-new-cfo-strategic-and-operational-executive-team-2023-08-14
Sylvania partners with ChromTech's Limberg Mining in a 50/50 JV named Thaba JV for platinum extraction in South Africa's Bushveld. The joint venture, called Thaba, will extract chrome and platinum group metals from tailings dumps as well as run-of-mine feed. They'll produce 13,000 tonnes of 4E PGM and 400,000t of chromide annually, with a $32m startup funded by Sylvania.
https://www.mining-technology.com/news/sylvania-chrometech-jv-thaba/
Glencore Alloys is advancing its decarbonisation and solar power efforts, with a 25 MW solar plant set to be constructed at the Rhovan vanadium operation in South Africa’s North West province. Japie Fullard, head of Glencore Alloys, mentioned ongoing collaborations with two independent power producers (IPPs) which would provide substantial solar energy. The company is also exploring cogeneration, converting operational offgas into electricity. Peter Freyberg, Glencore Industrial Assets head, highlighted global initiatives focused on reducing carbon-intensive electricity, with trials on electrification of mining fleets and fuel switching planned. Glencore aims for a 15% reduction in emissions by 2026.
Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of NUPRC, highlighted the necessity for innovative approaches in Nigeria's oil and gas sector due to the global energy transition. He stressed leveraging Africa's large consumer market, optimizing the crude oil value chain, seeking alternative fossil fuel funding, and embracing advanced technologies for efficient operations. Collaboration and effective regulations were underscored for industry progress.
South Africa's Mineral Resources and Energy Minister, Gwede Mantashe, defends oil and gas production against environmental opposition, citing energy poverty and economic growth. Discoveries like Brulpadda and Luiperd promise energy security. Environmental lawsuits threaten this potential, as seen with Shell Oil's halted exploration. The African Energy Chamber supports Mantashe's stance, emphasizing the critical role of natural gas in addressing Africa's energy poverty. Sustainable transition requires a balanced energy mix.
Global warming has raised the economic status and political importance of critical minerals, but with that also comes an increased risk of resource nationalism across the globe.
https://menafn.com/1106838573/A-Vicious-Cycle-Of-Rising-Resource-Nationalism
South Africa faces energy supply challenges, emphasizing the need for sustainable power. Estimates suggest abundant oil and gas resources onshore and offshore, requiring balanced exploration. With heavy dependence on imported oil, new gas discoveries could reduce economic vulnerabilities. Achieving energy independence requires strategic investments, technical expertise, and a conducive environment.
