China, Mozambique Unveil Plans To Map Critical Minerals In Insurgency-Hit Cabo Delgado

Last Updated:April 25, 2026, 11:25 IST

This shift follows the discovery -- during the early 2010s -- of vast reserves exceeding 5 trillion cubic metres (around 180 trillion cubic feet) in the Rovuma Basin

China and Mozambique have unveiled plans to jointly map critical mineral deposits buried beneath the resource-rich northern provinces of the East African nation.

The initiative comes as Maputo looks to tap into Chinese investment and technical expertise to unlock one of Africa’s most sought-after — yet conflict-affected — resource frontiers.

The announcement was made in a joint statement, following a discussion between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Mozambican counterpart, Daniel Chapo in Beijing.

According to a report by the South China Morning Post, the geological survey will focus on unlocking high-value deposits of graphite, lithium and rare earth minerals.

However, a constant threat looms over the efforts as a violent Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado province in the country has displaced over a million people and halted multibillion-dollar projects.

‘New Paths For Cooperation’

Chinese President Jinping stressed Beijing was looking to “explore new paths for cooperation in infrastructure and comprehensive energy and mineral development" with Mozambique.

He also underlined the need for a “sustainable development of practical cooperation" between the two nations.

Jinping announced China will also help Maputo in “exploring new paths for integrated development" in energy, minerals and infrastructure.

According to the report by the South China Morning Post, Mozambique has emerged as a major global hub for natural gas production.

This shift follows the discovery — during the early 2010s — of vast reserves exceeding 5 trillion cubic metres (around 180 trillion cubic feet) in the Rovuma Basin, located off the country’s northeastern coast.

What Does The Agreement Entail?

Under the agreement, China will assist Mozambique with the necessary capital to establish local processing plants, aimed at tapping the critical elements.

The agreement extends beyond discovering minerals, with China committing to support Mozambique’s efforts to combat terrorism and achieve domestic stability.

“China supports Mozambique’s efforts to combat terrorism and achieve domestic peace and stability, and is willing to continue to help Mozambique strengthen its relevant capacity building", the statement said, according to the South China Morning Post. 

A Look At China-Africa Ties

China and Africa have continued cooperation and diplomacy despite shifting international dynamics.

Earlier, Chinese President Xi said the Global South, represented by China and African nations, has always been a force for justice in a world marked by turbulence and transformation, according to state-owned CGTN. 

News world China, Mozambique Unveil Plans To Map Critical Minerals In Insurgency-Hit Cabo Delgado

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