Critical Minerals Contribute to Instability in Africa
September 15, 2025 - The world's reliance on critical minerals has led to a surge in mining activities across the African continent, with 31 countries involved. However, this boom has also brought about instability and uncertainty, as a lack of coherent labor and environmental standards, as well as limited cross-border collaboration, have hindered progress.
According to Jimmy Munguriek, country director for the NGO Resource Matters in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), "If today we had a regional agreement on how to exploit the minerals, that could be a factor giving stability." However, he also notes that "minerals can also be the cause of political instability," citing the conflicts between Rwanda and DRC as an example linked to coltan mining.
The DRC is the world's leading producer of cobalt, a critical mineral used in environmentally oriented infrastructure and emerging technologies. South Africa, Nigeria, and Morocco mine the largest variety of minerals, while Guinea leads in terms of metric tons mined. The global demand for these minerals has created a lucrative market, but it also raises concerns about labor rights, environmental degradation, and resource management.
The lack of regulation and oversight has led to human rights abuses, pollution, and corruption. Local communities have been displaced, and workers have faced hazardous conditions without adequate compensation or benefits. The situation is further complicated by the fact that many African countries lack the capacity to regulate their own mining industries effectively.
Resource Matters and other organizations are advocating for better labor and environmental standards, as well as increased transparency in the mining sector. They argue that a regional agreement on mineral exploitation would help stabilize the industry and ensure that benefits are shared equitably among all stakeholders.
The situation is not without hope, however. Some African countries, such as Ghana and Rwanda, have made progress in implementing responsible mining practices and promoting sustainable development. These efforts demonstrate that it is possible to balance economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.
As the world continues to rely on critical minerals, it is essential to address the challenges posed by their extraction. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and cooperation, African countries can harness the potential of these resources while minimizing their negative impacts.
Background:
The demand for critical minerals has increased significantly in recent years due to the growing use of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and other emerging technologies. Africa is home to a significant portion of the world's mineral reserves, making it an attractive location for mining companies.
Additional Perspectives:
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, former Minister of Finance in Nigeria, emphasizes the need for African countries to take ownership of their natural resources and ensure that they benefit from their extraction. "We must prioritize transparency, accountability, and good governance in the mining sector," she says.
Current Status and Next Developments:
The African Union has launched initiatives to promote responsible mineral exploitation and improve regional cooperation on resource management. The organization is working with member states to develop guidelines for sustainable mining practices and ensure that benefits are shared equitably among all stakeholders.
In conclusion, while the extraction of critical minerals poses significant challenges in Africa, it also presents opportunities for economic growth and development. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and cooperation, African countries can harness the potential of these resources while minimizing their negative impacts.
*Reporting by Dw.*
