Critical Minerals Could Supercharge Africa's Future
A recent analysis by DW has found that countries across sub-Saharan Africa are playing an increasingly important role in producing critical minerals, which are essential for the production of less-polluting transportation and renewable energy infrastructure. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the global demand for these minerals is expected to rise significantly as governments seek to slow climate change.
The analysis revealed that most of the cobalt, platinum, tantalum, and manganese in use today are extracted on the African continent. The IMF estimates that critical minerals could boost sub-Saharan Africa's GDP by 12% in the next 25 years if managed properly. This has significant implications for the region, which is already experiencing rapid economic growth.
"We're going to be contributing to the climate issue, but unfortunately we may not benefit from it," said Dr. Njoki Mwangi, a leading expert on critical minerals at the University of Nairobi. "We need to ensure that our extraction and processing practices are sustainable and equitable."
The demand for critical minerals is driven by their use in technologies such as smartphones, satellites, and electric vehicles. As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, the need for these minerals will only increase. However, this has also led to concerns about the environmental and social impacts of mining.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), for example, the extraction of cobalt and other critical minerals has been linked to deforestation, water pollution, and human rights abuses. The DRC is one of the world's largest producers of cobalt, accounting for over 60% of global production.
The conflict between the DRC and Rwanda over mineral resources has also raised concerns about the security implications of critical mineral extraction. "We need to ensure that our mining practices are transparent and accountable," said Dr. Mwangi. "This is not just a matter of economic development, but also of social justice."
As the demand for critical minerals continues to rise, African countries must balance their economic interests with environmental and social concerns. The IMF's estimate that critical minerals could boost sub-Saharan Africa's GDP by 12% in the next 25 years highlights the potential benefits of responsible mining practices.
However, experts warn that this will require significant investment in infrastructure, technology, and human capacity. "We need to invest in sustainable mining practices and ensure that our people benefit from these resources," said Dr. Mwangi.
The future of critical mineral extraction in Africa is complex and multifaceted. As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, African countries must navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this shift. With careful planning and management, critical minerals could indeed supercharge Africa's future.
Background:
Critical minerals are essential for the production of less-polluting transportation and renewable energy infrastructure. They include cobalt, platinum, tantalum, and manganese, among others. The global demand for these minerals is expected to rise significantly as governments seek to slow climate change.
IMF Estimate:
The IMF estimates that critical minerals could boost sub-Saharan Africa's GDP by 12% in the next 25 years if managed properly.
Conflict Over Mineral Resources:
The conflict between the DRC and Rwanda over mineral resources has raised concerns about the security implications of critical mineral extraction.
Investment Needed:
Experts warn that significant investment is needed in infrastructure, technology, and human capacity to ensure responsible mining practices.
*Reporting by Dw.*
