Morocco has expressed its readiness to engage in active cooperation with international partners to build sustainable and responsible mineral value chains.
Morocco’s Energy Transition and Sustainable Development Minister Leila Benali reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting regional and international collaboration in the mining sector.
Speaking at the 4th International Meeting of Mining Ministers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Benali outlined Morocco’s vision for sustainable mining practices and introduced an innovative initiative called the “OTC Corridor.” This strategic framework is built on the principles of Origin, Transit and Certification.
This approach is based on three fundamental principles that include the integration of advanced technology, which emphasizes the use of cutting-edge technologies, innovative systems and advanced legal frameworks at national and regional levels to ensure competitive and environmentally friendly mining production.
Other principles include the elimination of trade barriers as Morocco seeks to streamline the transportation of raw materials by removing commercial obstacles, and the introduction of strict regulatory frameworks to establish rigorous regulations to ensure the sustainability of mining activities while minimizing their environmental impact.
The minister highlighted Africa’s vast mineral resources and their strategic importance to industries such as renewable energy and advanced technologies.
However, she stressed the urgent need for responsible practices that respect social rights and labor standards, particularly those protecting children from exploitation.
Africa holds significant shares of the world’s critical mineral reserves: 55 percent of cobalt, 7.65 percent of manganese and 5.9 percent of copper.
Despite this wealth, the continent captures only 40 percent of the potential revenues from these resources.
This gap is attributed to governance challenges, inadequate infrastructure and a lack of value-addition activities.
Benali called for increased investment in research and development, focusing on recycling materials, sustainable water resource management and reducing the ecological footprint of mining operations.
By embracing this vision, Morocco aims to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for the mining industry across Africa and beyond.
MK/te/lb/jn/APA