Securing Africa’s Critical Mineral Wealth: A Role for Sovereign Wealth Funds

Join the Wilson Center on September 17 from 10:00-11:30 AM for a public event on how policymakers and private investors can think differently about how to harness Africa’s critical mineral wealth to build infrastructure and new economies on the continent.  

Global demand for energy transition minerals, like lithium, nickel, and cobalt is growing rapidly, with Africa holding a significant percentage of the world’s reserves. Africa’s growing population, combined with rapid urbanization and industrialization, will increase demand for renewable energy and expand the market for these minerals. However, for Africa’s mineral resources to translate to economic wealth, the critical mineral value chain needs to be improved with smart policies, reforms, and investments.  

Financing critical minerals projects in Africa presents opportunities for both international and regional investors.  The U.S. for example, is working with European and African partners to develop the continent’s rich critical minerals, through efforts like the Lobito-Corridor.  Ultimately, how Africa’s minerals are developed will have a significant impact on the continent’s economic future and beyond. Investment in Africa’s critical mineral sector would support the continent’s capacity to add value to minerals before shipping – thereby supporting poverty reduction and sustainable development.  

This event will explore how sovereign wealth funds can serve as a tool to harness Africa’s critical mineral wealth to power the global energy transition while developing sustainable value chains and promoting socioeconomic growth, and environmental protection. Speakers will also discuss how African national and subnational governments can manage and maximize profits from their natural resources and opportunities to unite fragmented critical mineral markets across the continent for larger-scale operations.