It's 'crunch time' for Africa's mining sector, warns Greenpeace Africa

Environmental lobby group Greenpeace Africa states it's "crunch time" for the continent's mining industry, as Africa faces a new scramble for its critical minerals driven by the global shift to a clean energy transition.

On Wednesday, the organisation released a new report on this rush for Africa’s critical minerals.

The report warns that Africa's vast reserves of critical minerals could either drive development or further strip the continent of its resources if governance and value addition remain weak.

Sub-Saharan Africa holds 30% of global critical mineral reserves, including Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), cobalt, and manganese.

"This rush feels all too familiar. It echoes the historical patterns of extraction that have enriched others, while impoverishing the continent, especially the communities standing on top of this wealth," said Koaile Monaheng, Pan African Strategist at Greenpeace Africa.

However, Monaheng noted that the rush for critical minerals still offers an interesting opportunity for Africa.

"The opportunity to re-write the rules of engagement, to move from a model of raw resource extraction to one of value addition, to redirect fossil fuel subsidies to renewable energy infrastructure and ensure Africa’s mineral wealth, to demand prior consent as a non-negotiable and to ensure Africa’s mineral wealth powers not only the global transition but also Africa’s industrialisation.”

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.