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[Ferro-Alloys.com] Exxaro Closes Manganese Acquisition, Becomes Fourth-Largest Global Producer

Exxaro Resources has completed its acquisition of manganese assets in the world’s largest manganese field, marking a transformative step in the company’s diversification strategy. The transaction makes Exxaro the fourth-largest manganese producer globally and provides entry into a region that holds 70-80% of Africa’s manganese reserves.

Announced by Exxaro CEO Ben Magara in Cape Town on Monday, the deal gives the company controlling interests in the Kalahari Manganese Field in South Africa’s Northern Cape, including a 60.1% stake in the Tshipi Borwa Mine.

“I’m pleased to announce Exxaro is now the latest entry to the Kalahari Manganese Field,” Magara said. “Manganese is crucial in the steel industry, which is essential to the infrastructure of the world, and crucial to batteries.”

The manganese acquisition represents the culmination of a diversification strategy Exxaro has pursued since 2021, as the company seeks to balance its strong coal foundation with exposure to critical minerals and renewable energy. Magara emphasized that diversification does not mean abandoning coal, noting that well-managed coal remains competitive for addressing energy poverty.

“We are using our strategic iron ore, zinc and coal base to diversify and responsibly add transition minerals,” Magara said, positioning Exxaro as a “diversified natural resources champion.”

The company maintains its position supplying 20%-30% of South Africa’s power generation and is investing R5.2 billion in a mine extension project. Exxaro recently signed a climate action agreement with Eskom focused on carbon capture and emission reduction technologies as part of its commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Beyond manganese, Exxaro has more than doubled its renewable energy capacity to just under 500 MW through recent wind and solar acquisitions. The company’s energy subsidiary, Cennergi, operates power plants generating approximately R400 million in annual profit.

As Exxaro marks its 20th anniversary in 2026, Magara framed the company’s evolution as central to Africa’s role in the global energy transition. “Our industry is not just about extracting natural resources – it’s about unlocking possibilities for a sustainable future,” he said.

• [Editor:tianyawei]