Sunday, 23 November 2025

South African investors eye Kaduna for a new precious-metals hub

Kaduna State has taken a significant step toward expanding its mining and industrial landscape with a major investment proposal from South Africa’s Precious Metals Tswane. The company, known for its work in responsible mineral processing, has outlined plans to partner with the Kaduna Mining Development Company to establish a modern precious metals aggregation and processing centre in the state.

The proposal was presented during the G20 Summit activities in Johannesburg, where Kaduna officials engaged investors on opportunities within the state’s fast rising mining sector. The planned facility is designed to introduce advanced processing technology, strengthen local value addition and place Kaduna at the heart of a growing regional market for responsibly sourced minerals.

A central feature of the investment is its focus on technology transfer. Precious Metals Tswane intends to equip Kaduna with modern systems used in global mineral hubs while training local engineers and operators to manage them. The company also outlined a clear commitment to structured capacity building for artisanal and small scale miners. This is expected to improve safety, raise earnings and reduce the environmental impact of traditional mining practices.

Equally important is the sustainability vision behind the project. The proposed centre is shaped around an ESG focused model that prioritises traceable sourcing, reduced waste, transparent pricing and responsible community engagement. Kaduna officials describe this as a vital step in moving the state from raw mineral extraction to processed products that meet international standards.

If actualised, the facility would create new jobs, support formalisation of artisanal miners, improve state revenues and attract manufacturers that depend on consistent supply of refined precious metals. It would also help curb losses from informal mineral trading by providing a reliable local market with competitive and transparent pricing.

Beyond its local impact, the project signals Kaduna’s wider ambition to build an integrated mining economy that supports industry, technology and long term economic growth. The state aims to shift from exporting raw materials to becoming a recognised centre for processing and mineral services in West Africa.

Next steps include formal agreements between Precious Metals Tswane and the Kaduna Mining Development Company, followed by detailed environmental and social assessments, project design and implementation planning. Stakeholders expect that once the structure is finalised, Kaduna will be positioned as one of the most promising emerging locations for responsible mineral development on the continent.

No comments: