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Global commodities trader Trafigura is supporting Africa’s critical minerals sector growth, having signed a long-term agreement earlier this year to transport copper from the Kamoa-Kakula Mine in the DRC to the Port of Lobito via the Lobito Atlantic Railway. The agreement marks the first long-term commercial commitment to the railway development project – which offers a more efficient and lower-carbon route to market – with Trafigura expected to transport up to 450,000 tons annually by 2025.

As a Silver Sponsor of African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2024 – scheduled for November 4-8 in Cape Town – Trafigura reinforces its legacy of connecting producers with global mineral, metals and energy consumers. The firm’s participation at Africa’s premier energy conference aligns with its broader commitment to advancing African infrastructure, energy and mineral trade, and transport and logistics sectors.

AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.aecweek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Trafigura’s participation in the Lobito Atlantic Railway – which aims to enhance regional trade and connectivity across the continent – extends beyond the transport of minerals. The firm is part of the consortium that manages the 30-year concession for the Lobito Atlantic Railway and Lobito Minerals Port, alongside construction firm Mota-Engil and transport services firm Vecturis. The consortium is responsible for the operation, maintenance and management of critical infrastructure linking the mineral-rich Copperbelt region to global markets.

In addition to its role in supporting Africa’s mining and logistics sector, Trafigura is expanding into the region’s power infrastructure sector. In July 2024, the firm signed a Memorandum of Understanding with engineering company Promarks and the Angolan government to develop a 2,000 MW high-voltage transmission line. The project aims to transport power from Angola’s northern hydropower plants to the DRC and Zambia, integrating with the Southern Africa Power Pool.

Meanwhile, Trafigura is among the leading contenders interested in acquiring Shell’s downstream assets in South Africa, which include a network of 600 service stations. If completed, the acquisition would strengthen Trafigura’s position in Africa’s fuel supply and retail sectors. The firm already owns a majority stake in Puma Energy, one of Africa’s largest fuel suppliers – which aligns with the broader trend of commodity traders expanding into downstream markets.

“Trafigura plays a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s energy and infrastructure development. By investing in critical logistics networks and energy projects, the firm is unlocking new economic opportunities across the continent, while enhancing trade and connectivity. Trafigura’s efforts to strengthen regional power infrastructure and streamline the movement of essential minerals are also key to driving sustainable growth in Africa,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

Trafigura’s participation as a Silver Sponsor at AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 reflects its strategic focus on infrastructure and energy projects in Africa. The firm is expected to lead and contribute to discussions around expanding logistics networks, supporting energy projects and driving investment in the continent’s growing energy and mineral markets.