Africa’s critical mineral boom: a double-edged sword of prosperity and instability

African countries are becoming key producers of critical minerals like cobalt and platinum,but the rush to extract these resources has also fueled instability,causing displacement and escalating armed conflicts across the continent.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected in its Regional Economic Outlook report published in April last year that critical minerals could boost sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP by 12% over the next 25 years. Yet,this resource boom brings a troubling paradox: while it promises economic growth,it is also deepening conflict,environmental damage,and political instability. As global demand surges for critical minerals powering green energy and digital technologies,Africa’s vast mineral wealth is drawing unprecedented attention.

Countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),South Africa,and Ghana are central to global supplies of cobalt,platinum,manganese,and tantalum — minerals essential for electric vehicles,smartphones,solar panels,and military hardware.

But on the flip side,in the DRC,for instance,mining operations are fueling clashes with Rwanda-backed rebels. Armed groups like M23 now control strategic mining zones such as Rubaya,threatening global supply chain traceability. Smuggling of coltan and other minerals into Rwanda has become rampant,undermining ethical sourcing efforts. Meanwhile,residents in mining towns like Kolwezi face displacement with little compensation. “We’re going to be contributing to the climate issue,but unfortunately,we may not benefit as we should,” says Sylvain Ilunga Muleka,a local metallurgy technician.

Despite producing 10.6% of global critical mineral exports in 2023,African nations capture only a fraction of the value. Most raw materials are refined abroad — especially in China — due to weak infrastructure and governance. More than 98% of critical mineral exports from Mauritania,Angola,and Uganda,and 88% from the DRC go for processing to China. Experts,including an UNCTAD’s 2024 report,warn that only with greater regional cooperation,local refining,and stricter oversight can Africa truly benefit from its mineral riches without fueling further instability.