Nigerian-based Alpha Petroleum has won Namibia’s largest diamond mining contract and will begin operations on October 1, 2024. The contract was awarded by NAMDEB, a joint venture between the Namibian government and De Beers Group.
This marks Alpha Petroleum’s first major contract in Namibia. Valued at $200 million, the agreement grants the company rights to carry out mining operations in specific areas under NAMDEB’s sea mining license.
The company will focus on offshore mining, targeting diamond-rich gravels identified in previous prospecting and mining efforts. Alpha Petroleum’s advanced shallow-water mining vessel will be used to extract, process, and recover diamonds. The recovered diamonds will be delivered monthly to the Contractors Treatment Facility in Lüderitz, Namibia.
Alpha Petroleum aims to produce between 30,000 and 60,000 carats annually, further cementing Namibia’s role as a major diamond producer. The project is expected to have a significant economic impact, particularly in the Halifax Island and Kerbehuk mining zones.
Commenting on the contract, Dr. Babajide Agunbiade, Founder and CEO of Alpha Energy Resources, said, “We’re glad to have emerged winners of the rigorous bid. We’re now ready to commence operations, executing the largest diamond mining project in Namibia, with a significant impact on the African continent.”
When asked about the impact on the company’s outlook, Dr. Agunbiade added, “Good publicity boosts any company’s outlook.”
NAMDEB is a subsidiary of Namdeb Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, jointly owned by the Namibian government and De Beers Group. Alpha Energy Resources is a leading EPICC service provider in Africa’s mining and energy sectors, with expertise spanning shallow to deep marine mining.
This milestone contract underscores Alpha Petroleum’s capabilities in responsible mining practices and strengthens Nigeria’s role in the global mining industry.
