The emerging consensus within the mining industry is that unlocking Africa’s critical minerals potential will require a combination of global partnerships and local development across key areas such as ethical investments, technology, geology, community involvement and downstream growth. This was the focus of a recent webinar hosted by Creamer Media in partnership with the Investing in African Mining Indaba, which is set to hold its annual gathering in February 2025. The event, themed “Unlocking Africa’s critical minerals through global demand and local development,” highlighted the need for enhanced exploration, stronger policy frameworks and better connectivity to drive growth in the sector.
Mosa Mabuza, CEO of the Council for Geoscience, emphasized the importance of a clear geological understanding of Africa’s mineral resources and called for increased investment in exploration to close the gap between Africa’s investment in geosciences and that of developed economies. He also stressed that Africa needs to define “critical minerals” based on its own needs and priorities, rather than adopting definitions from other regions.
To support exploration, South Africa’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has launched the Junior Mining Exploration Fund, which offers grants convertible into equity for viable discoveries. Kgashane Mohale, Senior Industry Specialist at IDC, emphasized the need for ambitious exploration to unlock Africa’s mineral resources and expand partnerships across the continent.
Policy frameworks were also discussed as crucial for aligning economic development with critical mineral mining. Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council South Africa, stressed that policies should unlock the full potential of the sector, facilitating exploration and the establishment of new mines.
For mining to benefit local communities, Adam Matthews, Chief Responsible Investment Officer at the Church of England Pensions Board, called for a positive legacy that includes infrastructure, capital and strong environmental and social performance. He noted that investors are now looking to fund projects that meet ESG (environmental, social, governance) standards, which are crucial for the energy transition.
Technology was another key topic, with Sudipto Moitra, GM of MTN Business ICT solutions, highlighting the role of connectivity in enabling technologies such as remote operations, operator-assist tools and collision-avoidance sensors. Moitra stressed that technology could empower local communities and youth, creating opportunities for entrepreneurship and growth in surrounding areas.
As the mining industry increasingly partners with manufacturers, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, there is a growing focus on securing the supply of critical minerals. Automotive OEMs are now looking upstream to ensure a stable supply, leading to stronger partnerships between mining companies and manufacturing industries.
Finally, the importance of youth and community involvement was emphasized, with Moitra suggesting that technology and telecommunications policy could help connect and empower young people and local entrepreneurs, enabling them to play a pivotal role in the mining sector.
The Investing in African Mining Indaba will be an essential platform for investors, governments, and industry stakeholders to collaborate on unlocking Africa’s mineral resources, ensuring the continent can meet global demand while fostering sustainable local development.
