Environmental organization Greenpeace Africa has issued a stark warning, declaring a “crunch time” for the continent’s mining sector. The global push for clean energy is accelerating demand for Africa’s vast mineral reserves, creating a pivotal moment....Click to Read More >>➤
A new report from the advocacy group highlights a critical juncture. Africa’s mineral-rich landscape could either become an engine for sustainable economic growth or fall into a familiar cycle of exploitation and underdevelopment.
Sub-Saharan Africa is a treasure trove of essential minerals. The region holds approximately 30% of the world’s reserves of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), cobalt, and manganese. These resources are vital for the global clean energy transition, placing the continent at the center of a new resource scramble.
Weak Governance Could Turn Opportunity into Exploitation
“The rush feels all too familiar,” stated Koaile Monaheng, Pan African Strategist at Greenpeace Africa. He noted that the current situation echoes historical patterns of extraction. These patterns have historically enriched external players while impoverishing the continent and the communities living on the land.
The organization stressed that without robust governance, the risks are immense. A lack of transparent regulations and equitable value chains could mean Africa loses out once again. Global powers are actively competing for this mineral wealth, and strong local systems are essential to ensure a fair outcome. This is a true crunch time for African leaders to secure a beneficial future.
Turning Mineral Wealth into Industrial Power
Despite the clear dangers, Greenpeace Africa also sees a rare window for positive change. Monaheng pointed to the potential for a fundamental shift in how Africa manages its resources.
He outlined the opportunity to rewrite the rules of engagement. The goal is to move beyond raw resource extraction toward local value addition. This approach would see Africa’s mineral wealth power its own industrialisation.
The report calls for redirecting fossil fuel subsidies to renewable energy infrastructure. It also demands that the free, prior, and informed consent of local communities be a non-negotiable standard in all mining projects.
Greenpeace Africa’s findings urge immediate action from African governments. Key recommendations include strengthening governance systems and rigorously enforcing community rights. Prioritizing local beneficiation is crucial to ensure the continent’s mineral resources fuel its own sustainable development. This proactive stance is needed to prevent another era of external exploitation and marks a definitive crunch time for policy makers.
The organization believes that with the right frameworks, this mineral rush can be a catalyst for progress. It is a pivotal moment to ensure that Africa’s resources finally contribute to widespread prosperity and long-term, sustainable growth for its people. The world is watching as this crunch time for Africa’s mining sector unfolds. ...Click to Read More >>➤
