Critical Minerals
latest news & developments
Critical minerals new game-changer for DRC economic growth
The Democratic Republic of Congo's vast mineral wealth, including cobalt and copper, is transforming its economy and making it a pivotal player in the global energy transition.…
Talks delay Tanzania's Kabanga nickel investment decision to 2027
Negotiations between the Tanzanian government and Lifezone Metals have prolonged the Final Investment Decision for the Kabanga Nickel Project, now expected in Q1 2027. This…
Africa bears growing human cost of the world's rush for critical minerals
A new report by the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre reveals that allegations of human rights abuses linked to transition mineral mining in Africa more than doubled in…
Billions promised, millions expected: Malawi's mining boom fiscal gap
As foreign companies advance projects worth tens of billions of dollars in critical minerals, Malawi's fiscal watchdog projects the government will collect roughly $19 million…
The problem is not China; it’s Africa
A Zimbabwean expert argues that Africa's approach to China regarding critical minerals is outdated, rooted in Cold War politics and anti-colonial solidarity. The article contends…
African SMEs face finance, fragmentation and succession crisis, warns IFC chief
At the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Makhtar Diop calls for bold investment, private sector leadership and structural reforms
Minerals boom but benefits bypass communities
South Africa is positioning itself as a key player in the global race for critical minerals but new research and warnings suggest those closest to extraction might lose out,…
Uranium mine audit flags toxic water and sanitation failures
Lotus Resources’ Kayelekera mine faces scrutiny after an audit revealed water safety and sanitation failures affecting workers
AI funding set to bring mining into 21st century
Minerals Minister Gwede Mantashe says the country faces challenges in developing an effective system for exploration and mining licences
Global rush for critical minerals puts African countries at risk, Mantashe warns
Geopolitical rivalries over minerals are intensifying, placing Africa’s resource-rich countries under pressure, the minister told delegates at the mining indaba
United States renews Agoa for another three years
However, it’s not certain whether South Africa will continue to benefit from the concessional trade pact for qualifying African countries
Africa 2026: polls sans choice, jobs
In addition, some of the continent’s wars show little sign of resolution
SA’s gas expansion: Women demand people-first energy policy
Women activists are pushing for an inclusive energy policy in South Africa, challenging the government’s gas plans and advocating for renewables
Mining red flags along KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast
Thirteen prospecting applications have been submitted to the department of minerals and petroleum resources by seven companies since 2023
Ramaphosa says talks with US on tariffs ongoing as measures are delayed for seven days
The president said a support package was being finalised for firms that will be affected by the tariffs