Luanda: The opening of the Namibe Industrial Park will allow for an increase in the production of ornamental rocks in Angola, according to the Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo. The minister, who was speaking at the closing of the commemorative events for Angolan Mining Workers' Day, highlighted the role of the industrial park in enabling the private sector to invest in processing plants and enhance domestic production capabilities. According to Angola Press News Agency, the production and processing of ornamental rocks have seen significant growth in Angola. The minister emphasized the necessity of expanding processing facilities to support this growth. He noted that the country currently hosts several processing plants, which underscores the need for further development in this sector. The minister also addressed the matter of large-scale gold mining, describing it as a relatively new endeavor that commenced post-National Independence. Efforts are underway to boost produ ction in this area. Additionally, he raised concerns about illegal diamond and gold mining activities. The ministry has implemented educational and coercive strategies to curb these practices, which adversely affect the nation. To combat illegal mining, the minister proposed measures such as job creation in mining regions and stricter control of illegal immigration. The closing ceremony of the Angolan Mining Workers' Day events was held at the Belas Conference Center, where over 800 attendees from the mining sector were present.