State-owned mining companies from Kenya, Malawi and Eswatini will headline the National Mining Companies Forum at African Mining Week (AMW) next week as they seek to attract financing and strategic partnerships to turn mineral potential into commercially viable projects.
The forum, scheduled for the final day of AMW 2026, will bring together national mining companies, investors and technical partners to discuss project financing, beneficiation and the development of investable mining pipelines across Africa.
The state-owned Malawi Mining Investment Company (MAMICO) is expected to showcase opportunities in gold, graphite, rare earths, limestone and other strategic minerals as the country seeks to strengthen its pipeline of mining and processing projects.
The company’s participation comes amid efforts by Malawi to increase investment in geological surveys, feasibility studies and domestic value addition.
A recently launched government roadmap, developed with support from the World Bank, projects mineral export earnings of up to $30 billion between 2026 and 2040.
MAMICO chief executive Leonard Kalindekafe will lead the country’s delegation to the forum.
Kenya’s National Mining Corporation (NAMICO) will use the platform to promote investment opportunities linked to copper, chromite, gold, fluorspar and rare earth minerals as Nairobi targets raising mining’s contribution to gross domestic product to 10 percent by 2030.
The country is advancing several projects, including the West Kenya Gold Project, the Mrima Hill Niobium and Rare Earth Project and the Migori Tailings Project while also seeking to revive fluorspar production in the Kerio Valley.
NAMICO chief executive Joseph Kitilit is expected to lead the corporation’s delegation.
Eswatini Solid Minerals Company is expected to highlight the kingdom’s push to expand exploration and mining activities in coal, gold, iron ore and other minerals.
The country recently secured a mining partner for formal gold extraction and plans to acquire domestically produced gold for national reserves.
The government has also allocated E6.13 million (about $367,000) for follow-up surveys and feasibility studies on mineral targets identified through its geological survey programme.
Organisers say the event will provide a platform for national mining companies to engage directly with financiers and industry partners as African governments seek greater value from their mineral resources through local processing and stronger participation in mining value chains.
Forum discussions will focus on how state-owned mining companies can position themselves as commercial partners capable of mobilising capital, advancing projects and supporting downstream mineral beneficiation.
AMW 2026 will be held from 14 to 16 October in Cape Town, South Africa under the theme, “Mining the Future: Unearthing Africa’s Full Mineral Value.”
JN/APA