High-Level Dialogue on Green Minerals in Africa (Africa Climate Summit)

As the world accelerates toward net-zero carbon emissions, the demand for critical energy transition minerals (CETMs) has increased. Critical minerals, such as cobalt, lithium, manganese, copper, nickel, and graphite, are essential components in the global shift toward renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles (EVs), and low-carbon economies.

Africa's vast deposits represent a tremendous opportunity for economic growth, job creation, and industrialization, with potential revenues from just four key minerals (copper, nickel, cobalt, and lithium) estimated at $16 trillion globally over the coming decades. However, historical patterns of resource extraction in Africa have often led to a "resource curse," where the locals face environmental degradation, social conflicts, and limited economic gains. The growing demand for critical minerals has intensified geopolitical competition among major players. To harness these resources responsibly, Africa is prioritizing value addition through upstream (exploration and extraction) and downstream (processing, manufacturing, and recycling) activities, ensuring sustainable practices that benefit local populations and contribute to global energy transitions. 

The workshop will feature a high-level session with Heads of State sharing their policy and regulatory regimes, complemented by expert and private sector presentations on the opportunities and challenges of mineral development. A panel discussion will bring together senior government officials and leading private sector actors and experts to explore business opportunities and engage in forward-looking dialogue on the development of critical mineral value chains, ESG standards, and community benefits.