Oman Fund Takes Stake in Angolan Diamond Mine Amid Sanctions

A state-backed investment fund from Oman has stepped into Angola's lucrative diamond mining sector by acquiring shares in the Catoca joint venture, effectively replacing Russia's Alrosa PJSC, which has faced mounting international scrutiny and sanctions. This strategic move marks a shift in Angola's diamond industry, where Alrosa had been a significant player, holding a key stake in the Catoca mine, one of the world's largest diamond producers.

Oman’s involvement comes at a critical juncture for Angola, where concerns over the impact of Alrosa's Russian ownership on global trade have prompted shifts in local mining partnerships. Despite Angola’s diamonds not being directly affected by Western sanctions, the involvement of Alrosa had created obstacles in international markets, particularly in Europe and the U.S., where buyers were hesitant to deal with Russian-affiliated suppliers’s national diamond producer, Endiama, has long held a controlling interest in Catoca, but Alrosa’s 41% stake in the operation had remained a point of contention. With sanctions targeting Russian entities, including Alrosa, Endiama has been working to mitigate the risks posed by its association with the Russian company. The decision to bring in Oman’s investment follows broader efforts by Angola to bolster its economic relationships beyond traditional partners and expand its influence in the global diamond market.

For Ocquisition represents a significant step into the African mining sector, offering access to one of the world’s most important sources of diamonds. This partnership also strengthens Oman’s position as a key player in global trade, particularly in the resource-heavy sectors where it has increasingly sought to expand its presence. It reflects a growing trend of Middle Eastern investments in Africa’s resource-rich markets, aiming to secure long-term growth opportunities .
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