Help African economies diversify beyond raw minerals.
For mineral-rich Africa, it's time to rethink mining, metal and minerals for a resilient future, experts underscored at an intergovernmental meeting hosted by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) from 3 to 5 November. From extraction to value addition, the discussion explored pathways to build competitive industries and productive capabilities on the continent. As the world increasingly pivots to renewable energy, soaring demand for critical energy transition minerals presents both opportunities and risks for Africa. The continent is abundant in such materials: 48.1% of cobalt, 47.7% of manganese, 21.6% of natural graphite, 5.9% of copper, 5.6% of nickel, 1% of lithium and 0.6% of iron ore globally. But African exports, primarily unprocessed minerals, have long limited job creation, weakened industries and left countries vulnerable to swings in global commodity prices. With funding support from Japan, an UNCTAD-led project is helping Madagascar, Namibia and Zambia identify high-poten...