Alake: Africa needs uniformity to boost mineral development

Africa's mineral resources have long been a key asset on the continent, but the need for a cohesive strategy and uniform policies have been emphasized by Nigeria's Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Minister Alake highlighted the importance of Africa speaking with one voice to drive development in the mineral sector. The establishment of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) in 2024 has been a significant step towards achieving this goal, providing a platform for African countries to collaborate and set common policies. This move towards uniformity aims to prevent mineral exploitation, promote local value addition, and drive technological transfer in the sector. According to Minister Alake, the global shift towards green energy has placed a spotlight on the importance of minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel in powering the transition. With the increasing focus on sustainability, environmental issues, and corporate social responsibility (CSR), the need for collaboration and idea exchange among mining countries has become crucial. Platforms like the Future Minerals Forum offer a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to come together, brainstorm, and address the challenges facing the industry. By aligning policies, regulations, and priorities, African nations can position themselves as key players in the global push for greener energy solutions. The establishment of the AMSG has brought African Ministers of Minerals together to address common concerns and advocate for a unified approach to mineral development. By speaking with one voice, African countries can counter the historical trend of mineral exploitation and ensure that local communities benefit from the resources within their borders. Minister Alake emphasized the significance of local value addition, whereby minerals are processed locally to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth. Through the AMSG, Africa aims to assert its position in the global mineral market and attract responsible investments that prioritize sustainable practices. One of the key challenges highlighted by Minister Alake is the lack of technological capacity in Africa, despite the presence of skilled human resources. To address this gap, the AMSG is exploring partnerships with developed nations to facilitate technological transfer and enhance local manufacturing capabilities. By engaging with companies with expertise in technological innovation, African countries can build a sustainable mining sector that leverages advanced processes and equipment. This collaborative approach not only fosters economic growth but also promotes skills development and knowledge sharing within the industry. As Africa navigates the transition towards green energy and sustainable mineral development, the role of the AMSG in driving policy coherence and regulatory alignment will be pivotal. By fostering unity among African nations and promoting a shared vision for the sector, the group aims to reshape the narrative of mineral exploitation on the continent. With a focus on local value addition, technological transfer, and environmental sustainability, the AMSG is set to play a crucial role in shaping Africa's mineral industry for the future.