Angola’s state-owned diamond company, Endiama, has signed a mining investment agreement with N’Dumba, a subsidiary of the Jean Boulle Group, for the exploration and extraction of diamonds in the N’Dumba concession.
The contract, finalised at the 2025 Mining Indaba in Cape Town, establishes a joint venture for the project. This agreement is part of Angola’s broader efforts to expand its diamond sector and attract foreign investment.
Location and Geological Potential
The N’Dumba concession, located in Lunda Norte province, covers 222 square kilometres and contains both kimberlite and alluvial diamond deposits. The area is positioned north of Angola’s major Catoca and Luele kimberlite mines, within a well-known diamond-producing region. Previous exploration has identified ten kimberlite pipes, with four already drilled and three confirmed as mineralised.
JBDM Ltd., the Jean Boulle Group-controlled entity involved in the project, has conducted three years of analysis on the site’s kimberlite formations. CEO Sybrand van der Spuy commented, “Our belief in the long-term prospects for high-quality diamond demand, together with our hands-on experience of today’s Angola, have determined JBDM’s interest in N’Dumba.”
Partnership and Industry Implications
The joint venture follows Endiama’s restructuring of the former Sociedade Mineira Camatchia-Camagico concession. Endiama Chairman Ganga Júnior explained that while previous work areas, such as the kimberlites of Camatchinga and Camagico, remain unaffected, a new concession has been defined to continue exploration. “As this is an activity that will still require significant investment, we found a partner with a mining tradition and financial capacity to work with us,” he said.
The agreement reflects Angola’s continued efforts to attract international investment in its diamond sector. The site’s infrastructure, including road access and proximity to regional airports, will facilitate exploration. The joint venture is also incorporating environmental considerations, including biodiversity mapping and potential hydro-electric power generation.
Next Steps
Following anticipated regulatory approval, the partners will begin mobilising resources for geological and mining research. The joint venture’s focus includes continued alluvial mining and further evaluation of untested kimberlite formations.
For jewellers, the development of N’Dumba may lead to an increased supply of Angolan diamonds. As the country strengthens its position as a diamond producer, industry professionals will be monitoring how production from the new concession impacts the market.
