Africa seeks greater control over critical minerals value chains

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By: Dakir Madiha

Africa seeks greater control over critical minerals value chains

African policymakers, researchers and mining experts are intensifying calls for local transformation of critical raw materials as global competition for strategic minerals accelerates. During a conference held in Rabat by the Policy Center for the New South and the Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute, participants examined the challenges linked to mineral governance, industrial transformation and long-term value creation across the continent.

Speakers stressed that critical minerals have become central to the global economy because of their role in clean energy systems, digital infrastructure and advanced technologies. Lithium, cobalt, manganese and rare earth elements are now essential components in electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines, smartphones and industrial electronics. Analysts at the conference warned that the concentration of refining and processing capacities in a limited number of countries represents a growing strategic vulnerability for global supply chains.

Fathallah Oualalou argued that Africa has entered a new phase of geopolitical competition driven by its mineral wealth and demographic growth. According to him, powers including China, the United States, Japan, Turkey and South Korea are increasing their economic and strategic engagement across the continent to secure access to critical resources. He noted that Africa could account for nearly 40 percent of the world population by the end of the century, strengthening its geopolitical importance beyond mining alone.

Oualalou also revisited the historical structure of Africa’s integration into the global economy. He said the continent has long remained dependent on exports of unprocessed raw materials, first during the slave trade era, later through colonial extraction systems and then through post-independence hydrocarbon exports. This economic model, he argued, limited industrial development and exposed many African economies to external shocks and commodity price volatility.

China’s rise as the world’s leading industrial power has further reshaped African mining dynamics since the early 2000s. Beijing expanded its investments and strategic partnerships across African mining sectors while becoming a dominant player in mineral refining and processing chains. Despite stronger growth in several resource-producing countries, conference participants noted that local industrial transformation remains limited and that most African states still export raw materials with little added value.

Mostafa Benzaazoua emphasized the need for scientific research and regional cooperation to strengthen Africa’s position in global mineral supply chains. He highlighted the role of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and OCP Group in supporting research linked to mining governance, resource exploration and sustainable industrial development. He also presented an African mining diversification initiative bringing together doctoral researchers from countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea and Niger.

The discussions also focused on mineral traceability, environmental regulation and the development of African refining capacity. Organizers argued that without stronger local processing industries and clearer governance frameworks, African countries risk remaining suppliers of raw materials while foreign economies capture most of the industrial and technological value generated by the global energy transition.