The resource-rich Central Asian nation aims to strengthen its role in global supply chains.
With its vast, partly unexplored mineral reserves, Kazakhstan is positioning itself as an emerging producer of critical raw materials. At the same time, the country is seeking to secure new mineral sources abroad. According to the Astana Times, the state-owned mining company Tau-Ken Samruk has begun geological exploration for rare earth deposits in Rwanda and Afghanistan. Through targeted partnerships in both countries, Kazakhstan hopes to reinforce its position within global critical-mineral supply chains, said Nurlan Zhakupov, CEO of the sovereign wealth fund Samruk Kazyna, which oversees Tau-Ken Samruk.
In Rwanda, a bilateral agreement has already been signed, and five target zones have been identified. Pending approval from Rwandan authorities, a joint venture for exploration and later mining is expected to be established before the end of the year. In Afghanistan, initial field studies have revealed promising potential; exploration work is ongoing, along with discussions with potential local partners.
According to Zhakupov, Kazakhstan aims not only to secure raw materials overseas but also to process them domestically to increase value creation within the country.
Rwanda, like many African nations, seeks to upgrade its mining sector by expanding domestic processing rather than exporting raw materials. The country is a significant producer of tantalum, tin, tungsten, and gold, and also holds potential for lithium and rare earth elements.
Afghanistan likewise has abundant mineral resources, including iron, gold, lithium, and rare earths. However, several factors hinder wider exploitation: the rugged terrain complicates mining operations, and the country lacks both infrastructure and a stable legal and political framework. Analysts also warn foreign investors of serious security risks. The Taliban government, in power since 2021, is officially recognized only by Russia; Kazakhstan and some other countries have instead adopted a pragmatic approach. Until now, China has been seen as the primary foreign actor interested in Afghan mining projects (we reported).
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