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Elements that have contributed to the flourishing of the mining sector in East Africa.

Types of Minerals in East Africa

Metallic Minerals: East Africa boasts a diverse array of metallic minerals, including iron ore, gold, cobalt, copper, tin, wolfram, tungsten, zinc, manganese, and more.

Non-Metallic Minerals: In addition, the region is rich in non-metallic minerals such as petroleum, phosphates, soda ash, sand, clay, gypsum, mica, water, coal, and others.

Factors Favoring Mining in East Africa

  1. Abundant Mineral Deposits: The presence of various mineral deposits, some of which have been successfully exploited for over two decades. Examples include limestone in Tororo and Hima in Kasese, diamonds in Mwadui plug at Shinyanga, and soda ash from Lake Magadi.

  2. Adequate Capital Investment: The availability of sufficient capital for mining operations, primarily sourced from foreign investors like Tullow Oil.

  3. Skilled and Unskilled Labor Force: The existence of a plentiful and diverse labor force, both skilled and unskilled, supporting mineral processing firms.

  4. Ready Market Access: Access to a ready market, encompassing both local and international markets such as Japan, China, and the USA.

  5. Well-Developed Transport Infrastructure: The presence of well-established transport facilities linking mineral zones to processing plants, including railways, roads, etc.

  6. Supportive Government Policies: Government policies that encourage mining operations, demonstrated through initiatives such as constructing transport and communication lines.

  7. Affordable Energy Sources: Availability of cheap hydroelectric power and alternative energy sources like solar energy, utilized for running machines in the sector.

  8. Community Support and Resources: Adequate supply of food from neighboring communities to ensure the continuity of mining activities.

  9. Surface Accessibility of Minerals: Most minerals in East Africa are found near the surface, facilitating easy and cost-effective exploitation.

Originally published on https://geographypoint.com on November 20, 2020.