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Moma Titanium Mine

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Industrial site
—°1
Moma Titanium Mine (Mozambique)

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The Moma Titanium Mine, located on the coast of Nampula Province, is one of the world's largest facilities for the extraction of mineral sands. Operated by the Irish company Kenmare Resources, the mine processes vast coastal deposits to recover ilmenite, rutile, and zircon. The extraction utilizes an innovative wet-dredging process on artificial ponds, which allows for the efficient separation of heavy minerals. These raw materials are essential components in the global production of pigments, ceramics, and titanium metal. Since starting production in 2007, the mine has become a cornerstone of the economy in northern Mozambique. Kenmare has established its own comprehensive infrastructure at the site, including a dedicated export jetty for direct shipping of processed minerals. The project emphasizes environmental sustainability, with a continuous land rehabilitation program to restore mined areas. Moma is a significant source of foreign exchange and provides stable employment for the local population.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272726252422222326282929
Rain mm327186164942726341472252175

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
This heavy mineral sands mine on the Mozambican coast is a globally significant source of titanium feedstocks. Its extraction of ilmenite, rutile and zircon supports international pigment and metal production, making it a cornerstone of the region's industrial economy.
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Visiting
The mine is a secure industrial site and is not open to casual visitors. However, one can typically view the large-scale mining operations from public access points along the coastal road.
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Where to view it
The best public viewpoints are from the beach near the mine perimeter or from elevated dunes along the coastline. From these spots, visitors can observe the heavy machinery and mineral separation plants at a distance.
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Local products
While the mine itself produces only industrial minerals, the surrounding coastal area has local markets with fresh seafood, cashew nuts, and coconut products. During certain seasons, travellers might also find ripe mangoes and other tropical fruits sold by roadside vendors.
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Active season
The mine operates year-round, but activity peaks during the dry season from April to November when overland access is most reliable. The shipping of concentrates via the nearby coastal port is typically most frequent in this period.
Nearby
A visit to the Moma mine area can be combined with coastal tours of the nearby Quirimbas National Park or the historic town of Angoche. The pristine beaches and mangrove ecosystems offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and local fishing excursions.

Geography

Coordinates
-16.73330, 39.23330

Facts

  • The mine accounts for approximately 7% of the global supply of ilmenite.
  • Extraction is carried out using three large floating dredges on artificial ponds.
  • The facility is powered via a dedicated 170 km long 110kV transmission line.
  • Ilmenite is primarily used as a feedstock for titanium dioxide pigment production.
  • Kenmare Resources has invested over 1 billion US dollars in the Moma operation.
  • The mine uses its own transshipment vessels to load large ocean-going ships offshore.

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Sights in the town Moma Titanium Mine (1)

Moma District📍 landmark

Moma District lies on the coast of Nampula, known for titanium sand mining operations.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is extracted in the Moma mine?
Mainly heavy mineral sands like ilmenite, rutile, and zircon.
Is the titanium mine accessible to tourists?
No, it is a purely industrial mining site with no tourist infrastructure.
Why is Moma economically significant?
It is one of the world's largest producers of titanium minerals.
Where is the mining area located?
On the coast of the Nampula province in northeastern Mozambique.
Are there tourist highlights nearby?
The coastal region features pristine beaches, but is little developed in terms of infrastructure.
Moma Titanium Mine: where is it located?
Moma Titanium Mine is located in Mozambique.
Moma Titanium Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Moma Titanium Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Moma Titanium Mine, located on the coast of Nampula Province, is one of the world's largest facilities for the extraction of mineral sands.
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