The Mining Intelligence latest top ten list ranks the world’s richest diamond mines, delineated by production and estimated value.

“The goal is to become a processing country, not just a production country,” Finance Minister Nicolas Kazadi said.

The Selebi south deposit has a resource of 11.28 million tonnes grading 0.98% nickel and 1.9% copper.

Commodity research firm says production growth, weaker demand and negative sentiment in the industry will see iron ore, copper and industrial metals sink next year.

The Bibiani and Chirano gold mines, situated 15 km apart in Ghana, are expected to produce a combined 400,000 oz. of gold next year.

One drill hole intercepted 3,956 g/t silver over 21.6 metres, including an intersection of 5,792 g/t silver over 14.4 metres.

Ivanhoe struck a deal last year with Vidiye Tshimanga, a top aide to Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi, the firm said in a statement on Dec. 14.

Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo caused a controversy by stating last week that Burkina Faso had hired mercenaries from Russia's Wagner group to help it fight Islamist militants.