Oromia Regional State’s Mineral Development Authority generated USD 324 million from mineral mining during the 2021/2022 fiscal year. The Regional State sold a total of 4,316 kilograms of gold and 461,000 tons of coal during the same period. In addition, it supplied 22 million tons of gypsum stone to construction companies situated in Addis Ababa.

Oromia is reported to have untapped mineral potentials. However, the Regional State has only availed 10% of its mineral resources. According to Tesfaye Megersa, Director General of Oromia Mineral Development Authority, the Authority is employing various measures to attract investors to the mining sector. Accordingly, the State imported 8 gold washing machines which would provide support for legally recognized miners. The State is also working to improve its legal framework.

The Oromia Mineral Development Authority was reorganized in 2019 with the aim of improving its working capacity. Gold, copper, coal, emerald, and gypsum are some of the minerals that are found in the Regional State.

Source: Walta Media and Communication Corporate

Additional source: Oromia Mineral Development Authority