Africa is leveraging strategic economic diplomacy to attract global investment and strengthen its mining sector, solidifying its role in critical global supply chains.
With key partnerships involving the United States, European Union (EU), China and other nations, African governments are maximising economic benefits while advancing critical minerals development.
Competition among global powers for Africa’s resources has intensified as markets pursue materials essential for the energy transition and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The US has prioritised cooperation with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with the State Department announcing last month plans to engage the Kinshasa authorities to unlock the DRC’s $1.2 trillion in untapped mineral reserves.
The partnership will focus on enhancing cobalt and copper production while supporting infrastructure through the Lobito Corridor, facilitating mineral transport and trade between the DRC, Angola, Zambia and international markets.
The EU recently pledged €4.7 billion to South Africa for platinum group metals (PGMs), green hydrogen projects, the energy transition and raw material value addition.
Neighbouring Namibia and Uganda have also received EU backing to develop sustainable mining practices and green energy solutions.
The EU committed €25 million to Namibia Hydrogen Fund Managers in September 2024 to propel the country’s green hydrogen sector while Uganda launched the Sustainable Development of the Mining Sector project this month with the support of the EU and the Germany government.
China continues to assert its influence, committing $50 billion over three years to infrastructure and mineral projects across Africa.
Investments include lithium mining in Zimbabwe, a $7 billion infrastructure-for-minerals deal in the DRC and the Tazara Railway upgrade to support East African exports.
Africa’s mining sector has also attracted interest from countries like Canada, Australia and the United Arab Emirates, which have ramped up their investments in recent years.
The upcoming African Mining Week, set for October 1-3 in Cape Town, will serve as a platform for collaboration between African governments and international stakeholders.
JN/APA