FDRE Institute of foreign affairs

The global shift toward artificial intelligence and green technologies is driving unprecedented demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements. Africa, holding about 30% of the world’s mineral reserves—including dominant shares of manganese, platinum, chromium, and cobalt—is positioned at the forefront of this transformation. As demand for these minerals is projected to surge by at least 500% by 2050, Africa's resources are becoming central to the global energy transition and technological race.

This strategic importance has intensified geopolitical competition, with major powers like the United States, China, the European Union, and Japan deepening engagement through infrastructure investments, mineral partnerships, and diplomatic initiatives. The U.S. is advancing projects like the Lobito Corridor and forming bilateral agreements to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains, while China continues to dominate processing capacity and infrastructure development through initiatives like the Belt and Road. Meanwhile, the EU and Japan are also securing partnerships to ensure access to raw materials.

For Africa, this heightened interest presents a crucial opportunity to leverage its mineral wealth for greater diplomatic influence, economic development, and local value addition. Countries like Zimbabwe, Namibia, the DRC, and Zambia are already implementing policies to restrict raw mineral exports and promote domestic processing. To maximize benefits, African nations must strengthen governance frameworks, negotiate favorable terms with international partners, and channel investments into local refining and manufacturing. By doing so, the continent can transform its resource wealth into sustainable development and secure a influential role in the global political economy.