Africa’s Critical Minerals: From Raw Resources to Green Gold
Evident Makatwane 
Africa sits at the heart of the global green energy transition, but experts argue that the continent must seize the opportunity to turn its vast mineral wealth into “green gold” through beneficiation, industrialization, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the African Critical Minerals Summit in Johannesburg on Monday, Sthembiso Dlamini, Chief Executive of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, said the continent is well-positioned to become a global leader in the renewable energy revolution if it invests in value addition rather than remaining a supplier of raw materials.
Africa’s Resource Advantage
Africa is home to nearly a third of the world’s critical mineral reserves. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), demand for these minerals is expected to quadruple by 2040 as the world accelerates its shift toward clean energy.
The continent holds:
- Over 70% of global platinum and chromium reserves,
- Nearly 50% of cobalt and manganese,
- The world’s largest phosphate deposits,
- Significant reserves of lithium, rare earths, and other minerals essential for batteries, electric vehicles, and renewable technologies.
“These minerals are at the centre of the global energy transition, technological advancement, and industrial development,” Dlamini said. “Africa cannot afford to remain a mere exporter of raw ores. Instead, we must build industries that process, manufacture, and innovate around our natural wealth.”
From Mining to Manufacturing
Dlamini argued that beneficiation the process of refining raw minerals into finished or semi-finished product should be the cornerstone of Africa’s development strategy.
“Advancing beneficiation is not just an economic imperative. It is a developmental necessity,” she explained. “By processing and adding value locally, we create jobs, stimulate new industries, and link mining with manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors.”
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was highlighted as a unifying framework that could help build regional value chains connecting beneficiation, processing, and advanced manufacturing across borders.
A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity
Experts warn that if Africa fails to industrialise around its mineral wealth, it risks repeating historical patterns where raw resources are exported cheaply and finished products are imported at a premium.
“Industrialisation anchored on the critical mineral sector offers Africa a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Dlamini said. “If managed well, these resources could serve as the backbone of new supply chains in green technologies, electric vehicles, and renewable energy.”
Countries like Indonesia and Chile have already demonstrated how value addition in nickel and lithium, respectively, can significantly increase national revenues and strengthen their positions in global supply chains.
Balancing Growth with Sustainability
While the opportunities are immense, Dlamini stressed that growth must be inclusive and sustainable.
“Our approach to critical minerals must balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and social responsibility,” she said. “Communities must benefit directly, ecosystems must be protected, and governance must ensure transparency and accountability.”
This aligns with recommendations from the African Development Bank (AfDB), which has urged governments to adopt policies that prioritise local beneficiation, green infrastructure, and fair partnerships with investors.
Shaping the Future
If Africa leverages its resources strategically, experts believe it can transform from being a marginal player in global value chains to becoming a hub of green industrialisation.
“This is how we unlock greater returns for our people and ensure that the wealth of our natural resources translates into long-term prosperity,” Dlamini concluded.
About the Author
Viable News Team 
