Nigerian Drone Startup Terrahaptix Surges with $2M Revenue, Breaks into South African Mining Market

By Achimi muktar

In just one year, Nigerian drone company Terrahaptix has achieved a remarkable milestone: recording $2 million in revenue while expanding its footprint across Africa. Now, the company is poised to revolutionize mining operations in South Africa with its cutting-edge drone technology.

Terrahaptix recently signed an exclusive contract with South Africa-based mining distributor DiggingDeep to supply drones designed for surveying, mapping, and monitoring mining sites. This partnership, revealed to Techpoint Africa by founder Nathan Nwachukwu, marks a significant step in the company's journey to dominate Africa's drone market.

Transforming Mining with Drones

The adoption of drones in mining has skyrocketed, with global usage jumping from 44% in 2018 to 65% today, according to Mining Technology. Valued at $31.4 billion, the mining drone market is projected to reach an astounding $103 billion by 2031.

Terrahaptix’s drones are tailored to enhance safety and efficiency in mining. They provide real-time aerial data to survey sites, monitor hazardous areas, inspect equipment, and identify mineral deposits in hard-to-reach locations. Ground drones, such as the company’s flagship model Duma, will assist miners with on-site operations and ground surveillance, minimizing risks to workers.

“This partnership will solidify our role in South Africa’s mining industry,” Nwachukwu said. “Our drones are not just about technology; they’re about empowering industries to optimize workflows and reduce costs.”

Expanding Across Africa

South Africa is the fifth African country to join Terrahaptix’s client portfolio, alongside Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Côte d'Ivoire, and Nigeria, where the drones are manufactured. Despite being headquartered in Nigeria, 75% of the company’s sales come from exports.

Terrahaptix sources 80% of its drone materials locally, keeping costs more than 50% lower than its competitors. Sensors and cameras are imported from China, further enhancing affordability. This pricing edge allows Terrahaptix to outcompete South African rivals like Aerobotics and Drone Air, as well as global drone giants.

Riding the Mining Renaissance

The rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is fueling what Nwachukwu calls a “mining renaissance” in Africa. Lithium, a key component of EV batteries, has seen an 80% increase in production between 2021 and 2023, driven by the booming EV market.

“Demand for our drones will surge as mining organizations ramp up operations to meet the need for lithium and other minerals,” Nwachukwu predicted.

Beyond Africa: A Glimpse into the Future

Terrahaptix’s rapid growth has not only exceeded its initial $1.6 million revenue target but has also laid the groundwork for global expansion. “Our success in South Africa proves our capabilities,” said Nwachukwu. “We’re just getting started. Dominating critical sectors like mining and oil is only the beginning.”

With its affordable pricing, innovative technology, and ambitious vision, Terrahaptix is setting the stage to become a major player in the global drone market—reshaping industries and putting Nigerian tech on the map.