Kanyika Mining Project: A Historic Milestone for Malawi as a Future Major Niobium Producer in Africa
The Kanyika mining project, developed by Australian company Globe Metals & Mining, is poised to mark a historic milestone for Malawi as a future major niobium producer in Africa with the announced opening of the first large-scale niobium mine in Africa. This project aims to offer an alternative to a global market largely dominated by Brazil, which accounts for nearly 90% of the world's niobium supply.
The Kanyika Project: Set to Become Africa's First Large-Scale Niobium Mine
Niobium is a strategic metal, primarily used in steel production to strengthen steel, as well as in high-value-added sectors such as electronics, defense, and electric vehicles. The dependence on a single producing country is regularly cited as a vulnerability for global supply chains.
Despite its Strategic Importance, the Kanyika Project Faces Delays
More than a year after the first postponement was announced in 2024, construction work has yet to begin. In an update published on December 19, 2025, Globe Metals & Mining indicated that it is still in the process of mobilizing financing and preparing technically, thereby pushing back the production start date to 2028, compared to an initial deadline set for 2026.
Project Estimates and Investment
According to current estimates, the mine is expected to produce approximately 73,250 tonnes of niobium pentoxide and 3,240 tonnes of tantalum pentoxide over an estimated lifespan of 23 years. The total investment is valued at $250 million, with cumulative revenues expected to reach $5.6 billion over the entire operating period.
Preliminary Sales Agreements and Revenue Sharing
Several preliminary sales agreements have already been concluded with international players, indicating market interest in this future African source of niobium. For the host state, the project also represents a new source of mining revenue, with a 10% free participation, a 5% royalty on revenues, and an annual contribution to local communities.
A Key Role in Diversifying the Global Niobium Supply
If the next steps planned for 2026 are successfully completed, Kanyika could play a key role in diversifying the global niobium supply, in a context of sustained growth in demand for strategic metals.
