Patrice Motsepe, CAF President, Expands His Global Empire with $1 Billion Copper Deal in Australia

South African billionaire Patrice Motsepe, who also serves as the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has made another powerful move on the global mining stage after Harmony Gold, a company closely linked to him, finalized the $1.01 billion acquisition of MAC Copper Limited, owner of the high-grade CSA Copper Mine in New South Wales, Australia. The purchase, completed through a Jersey-law scheme of arrangement, marks one of the largest international investments ever made by a South African mining firm. Harmony paid $12.25 per share for MAC Copper, valuing the transaction

South African billionaire Patrice Motsepe, who also serves as the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has made another powerful move on the global mining stage after Harmony Gold, a company closely linked to him, finalized the $1.01 billion acquisition of MAC Copper Limited, owner of the high-grade CSA Copper Mine in New South Wales, Australia. The purchase, completed through a Jersey-law scheme of arrangement, marks one of the largest international investments ever made by a South African mining firm. Harmony paid $12.25 per share for MAC Copper, valuing the transaction at just over $1 billion. The company financed the deal through a combination of its internal cash reserves and a $1.25 billion bridging facility arranged with global lenders — a clear sign of investor confidence in Harmony’s strategy and leadership. Traditionally known for gold production, Harmony Gold is now positioning itself as a multi-metal miner, with copper expected to play a key role in its future. This shift aligns with the company’s long-term growth plan and global trends favoring metals critical to clean energy and electric mobility. Copper — essential in power transmission, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems — is projected to remain one of the most sought-after commodities in the coming decades. By securing a world-class copper asset, Harmony aims to diversify its portfolio while ensuring sustainable growth beyond gold. For Patrice Motsepe, who also heads African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) and oversees African football’s top governing body, the move underlines his ability to balance business leadership and continental sports administration, while continuing to project African excellence on the global stage. Industry experts note that while this acquisition brings major opportunities, there are still challenges ahead — including fluctuations in copper prices and the complexities of managing operations across continents. However, Harmony’s track record in large-scale mining and Motsepe’s strategic acumen make the transition promising. Motsepe’s expansion into Australia’s copper sector is more than a business deal; it is a symbol of African ambition and global influence. As the world accelerates toward renewable energy and electrification, copper’s demand will continue to rise — and so will Motsepe’s presence as both a business magnate and a continental leader shaping Africa’s future on and off the field.