Africa is raising its voice against the accelerating push for deep-sea mining, a controversial resource strategy that could reshape global mineral supply chains while inflicting irreversible damage on marine ecosystems. As global powers, including the United States, seek new sources of critical minerals, African nations warn that seabed exploitation risks undermining both the continent’s economic stability and the health of the world’s oceans.
Deep-sea mining (DSM) targets vast deposits of cobalt, copper, nickel, rare earth elements, and other strategic minerals buried thousands of meters below the ocean surface. With demand rising due to electric vehicles, battery technologies, and clean-energy systems, seabed extraction has become increasingly attractive to major economies. But critics argue that this race toward the ocean floor threatens to dismantle decades of multilateral ocean governance and could leave lasting scars on fragile marine environments.
A Challenge to Global Ocean Governance
International tension intensified when the United States announced an executive strategy to expand seabed mineral exploration. The move has been widely criticized for contradicting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which defines ocean resources as the “common heritage of humankind.” Under this framework, ocean minerals are to be managed collectively, ensuring equitable access and protection—not exploited through unilateral national actions.
Experts warn that the U.S. approach risks undermining global cooperation, setting dangerous precedents, and accelerating competition in areas of the ocean that remain largely unexplored and poorly understood.
Africa Raises Concerns Through the International Seabed Authority
Within the International Seabed Authority (ISA), African states have expressed deep concern about launching commercial DSM operations before a comprehensive regulatory system is in place. Sierra Leone, speaking for the African Group, emphasized several urgent issues:
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the destabilizing impact DSM could have on land-based mining sectors
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the absence of clear and enforceable regulations
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the need for transparent financial mechanisms that guarantee fair benefit-sharing
For many African economies, seabed mining poses a direct threat. Countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia rely heavily on terrestrial cobalt, copper, and nickel production. A sudden influx of seabed minerals could disrupt global markets, depress prices, and undermine economic development.
Despite these risks, Africa’s collective political response has been quieter than expected—raising concerns among environmental leaders and ocean governance experts who warn that silence could weaken the continent’s influence at a crucial moment.
Environmental Alarm: Marine Damage Could Be Permanent
Scientists caution that DSM could cause environmental consequences far more severe than land-based mining. Research from earlier ocean disturbances shows:
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long-term destruction of seafloor landscapes
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reduced biodiversity and habitat collapse
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sediment plumes that could spread toxins across vast ocean regions
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risks to fisheries and coastal communities
Marine ecosystems formed over millions of years could be permanently altered within days of mining activity. Environmental organizations argue that African nations must insist on science-based regulations and enforce stringent environmental assessments before any commercial operations begin.
A Defining Moment for Africa in Global Ocean Policy
African nations now stand at a decisive point. They have the ability—and the responsibility—to shape the future of deep-sea mining governance:
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Pursuing legal clarity through the International Court of Justice regarding obligations under UNCLOS
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Advocating for a global moratorium on DSM until full environmental protections and scientific guidelines are adopted
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Strengthening unity within the ISA General Assembly to ensure African interests are protected
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Championing equitable resource-sharing frameworks that prevent exploitation and safeguard long-term economic stability
Africa’s role is particularly critical because of its dual vulnerability: dependence on land-based mineral exports and exposure to climate and biodiversity risks.
Protecting Oceans, Economies, and Future Generations
The decisions made now will determine whether deep-sea mining becomes a new frontier of environmental destruction or a carefully managed, equitable resource system. By taking a strong, unified stance, African nations can ensure that global ocean governance reflects not only economic opportunity but also the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems, local communities, and the planet’s future.
