The Minister of Solid Minerals Development in Nigeria, Dr. Oladele Alake, is urging African leaders to come together and make the most of the continent’s mineral resources. He made this plea during the signing of a resolution to establish the Africa Minerals Strategy Group at the Investing in Africa conference in Cape Town, South Africa.
Dr. Alake, who was elected as the chairman of the group, stressed the importance of African leaders speaking together about the value of adding to minerals as a requirement for investing in the mining industry. He wants to put an end to the time when solid minerals were exploited without benefiting the local communities.
Dr. Alake highlighted Africa’s important role in the global economy, especially in supplying the metals needed for the energy transition. He believes that African countries should join forces to take control of their resources and avoid being taken advantage of like in the past.
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Standardized regulations and laws across African countries are crucial to ensure fairness and transparency in the mining sector. Dr. Alake promised Nigeria’s full support in achieving the goals of the newly established Africa Minerals Strategy Group.
Dr. Alake emphasized the need for unity among African countries, stating, “Today, there is an economic scramble for Africa. The metals needed for the energy transition are in Africa. If we don’t come together and take control, we will face the same difficulties as before. That’s why we formed this group.”
He also stressed the importance of having consistent regulations and laws across different countries. This way, those who want Africa’s minerals will know that the same rules apply everywhere. By showing sincerity of purpose, Africa will gain the respect it deserves.
The event was attended by ministers of mineral development from various African countries, including Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Chad, Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia.
- Tags: Africa, solid minerals
