Unlocking Angola's Economic Potential: Beyond Oil, Towards Diversification
- Angola | 6 October 2022

Angola’s economy has long been reliant on oil, but the nation is now exploring opportunities for diversification and sustainable growth. With the majority of exports, government spending, and GDP linked to crude oil, there is a growing recognition of the need to tap into other sectors. This article delves into the potential of mining and diamond trade as lucrative avenues for immediate profitability and long-term economic diversification in Angola.
Amid calls for diversification, Angola has the opportunity to explore sectors that offer profitability without requiring significant investments. By prioritizing immediately viable industries, the country can take the initial steps towards reducing its dependence on oil. One such sector is mining, which has immense potential to yield early profits and drive economic growth. Although the iron ore industry had previously declined due to logistical challenges and outdated infrastructure, the resumption of iron ore exports in 2021 after a 45-year hiatus signals a promising revival of this sector.
Angola possesses proven reserves of various minerals, including manganese, quartz, and copper, which have yet to be exploited at an industrial scale. Given the increasing demand for these minerals in industries such as electronics, mining resources could quickly become profitable for the country. Additionally, Angola’s diamond industry, historically one of Africa’s top producers, still has vast unexplored areas rich in diamonds. Recent discoveries, such as a rare streak of pink diamonds in the northeast, have reignited global interest. Regions like Bié, Uíge, and Malanje offer high potential for mining investments.
Angola’s diamond trade presents another avenue for economic diversification. While Endiama, the national diamond company, holds exclusive mining rights, it is open to transparent partnerships with investors. The country’s pink diamonds, especially in light of US sanctions on Russian gems, have the potential to attract significant attention and demand. By viewing the diamond industry as a stepping stone towards broader economic diversification, Angola can leverage its rich resources and offer compelling opportunities to investors in the long run.
To unlock its economic potential, Angola is actively seeking partnerships with both local and international investors. The government emphasizes transparency and a favorable climate for businesses. By fostering collaboration and attracting investment, Angola can tap into a range of sectors, including agriculture, mining, and the diamond trade. These efforts will drive sustainable economic growth, create employment opportunities, and establish a robust foundation for long-term prosperity.
Angola’s economy, traditionally reliant on oil, is now charting a course towards diversification. By exploring profitable sectors like mining and capitalizing on its diamond resources, Angola can reduce its dependence on oil and tap into new sources of economic growth. The resumption of iron ore exports, unexplored mining reserves, and the allure of rare pink diamonds highlight the country’s potential. With a commitment to transparency and fostering partnerships, Angola can attract both local and international investors, setting the stage for a diversified and vibrant economy with sustainable long-term growth.