Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has made a passionate call for Africa to take control of its vast mineral resources and resist the influence of developed nations, particularly the United States. Speaking at the 31st Investing in African Mining conference in Cape Town, Mantashe criticized Western countries for defining “critical minerals” to suit their own interests, at the expense of Africa’s economic development.
Mantashe urged African nations, including South Africa, to assert their independence and not be intimidated by US threats. He proposed withholding minerals from the US if they do not provide fair compensation, emphasizing that Africa should not be treated as mere beggars in the global mining industry.
The Minister’s remarks come at a time when there is a growing global demand for minerals essential to the energy transition, such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earths. The US has been actively seeking to secure a stable supply of these minerals, often looking to Africa as a key source.
Mantashe highlighted the need for Africa to prioritize its own industrialization and economic growth, rather than being dictated to by developed nations. He emphasized the importance of beneficiation and value addition to raw materials, citing the example of South Africa’s abundant manganese reserves, of which only a small percentage is processed domestically.
Despite acknowledging challenges in energy security, Mantashe expressed confidence in the progress being made in the mining sector. He mentioned ongoing efforts to improve the mining licensing system, clear application backlogs, and reduce administrative costs for businesses.
With South Africa leading the G20 this year, Mantashe sees an opportunity to shape a new era for the African mining industry. He emphasized the importance of leveraging this leadership position to drive sustainable development and economic growth in the sector.
The mining industry remains a crucial source of income for South Africa, particularly through platinum group metals and coal production. In 2023, South Africa was the world’s largest producer of platinum group metals, underscoring the country’s significance in the global mining landscape.
In conclusion, Mantashe’s call for African nations to assert their sovereignty over mineral resources and prioritize local beneficiation reflects a broader push for economic empowerment and industrialization on the continent. By taking control of their resources and ensuring fair and equitable partnerships with global players, African countries can unlock the full potential of their mining sectors for sustainable development. The world of technology is constantly evolving, with new advancements and innovations being made every day. From artificial intelligence to virtual reality, the possibilities seem endless. One of the most exciting developments in recent years is the rise of blockchain technology.
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