Exxaro Resources Joins International Manganese Institute as R11.67bn Kalahari Manganese Acquisition Advances
South Africa-based diversified resources group Exxaro Resources has joined the International Manganese Institute (IMnI), reinforcing its strategic expansion into the manganese sector.
The IMnI represents more than 130 member companies across over 30 countries, serving as a global platform for manganese producers, consumers and industry stakeholders.
Strategic Shift Toward Manganese
Exxaro’s core portfolio has historically centered on coal, alongside a growing energy solutions business and equity-accounted investments in iron ore and base metals, primarily zinc.
The company has also signalled acquisitive ambitions in energy transition metals, with manganese now emerging as a central pillar of that strategy.
The company operates primarily in South Africa, with business interests extending into Europe and Australia.
R11.67-Billion Transformational Deal
Exxaro recently advanced its expansion into manganese through a binding R11.67-billion transaction to acquire shares and claims in manganese assets held by Ntsimbintle Holdings and OM Holdings.
The assets are located within the globally significant Kalahari Manganese Field in South Africa’s Northern Cape — one of the world’s largest manganese reserves.
The transaction includes:
74% of Ntsimbintle Mining
19.99% of Jupiter Mines
100% of Ntsimbintle Marketing and Trading
51% of Mokala
9% of Hotazel Manganese Mines
Through the acquisition, Exxaro gains exposure to four operating mines. This includes an effective 60.1% interest in the Tshipi Borwa mine, 51% of Mokala, and a 9% stake in Hotazel Manganese Mines, which operates the Mamatwan and Wessels mines.
Transaction Progress and Conditions
Exxaro confirmed in a stock exchange announcement that the acquisition of select manganese assets from Ntsimbintle and OM Holdings has become unconditional following the fulfilment of initial transaction requirements.
However, the Mokala sale remains subject to the completion of outstanding suspensive conditions. The long-stop date for fulfilment has been extended to 27 February, with a further market update expected in due course.
Positioning for Energy Transition Demand
By joining the IMnI and advancing this large-scale manganese acquisition, Exxaro is positioning itself more firmly within global supply chains linked to steel production and battery technologies.
Manganese plays a critical role in both traditional steelmaking and emerging battery chemistries, making it strategically aligned with long-term energy transition demand.
The move signals a deliberate portfolio evolution as Exxaro reduces reliance on coal and builds exposure to future-facing commodities.
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