Eight African Countries Stop Export of Raw Minerals

Eight African countries have stopped exporting unprocessed minerals. Tunde Muritala Arisekola advises the 54 member states of the African Union on minerals policy at the African Minerals Development Centre. He told ENN that the ban is just the beginning. What happens next will decide if the value stays in Africa.

Arisekola is the Senior Advisor for Geological and Mineral Information at the African Minerals Development Centre in Addis Ababa. He watches how the member states follow the policy directions from the Centre. Many of them are not there yet.

"There is need to build local capacities in such countries," he said about those still struggling to process minerals significantly.

He points out that machinery and equipment are in short supply across Africa. Electricity is another issue. Affordable and sustainable electricity is needed to keep a plant running. Transport networks and logistics also pose challenges.

"Critical minerals are the backbone of future energy and infrastructure developments," Arisekola said. "Resource endowment alone is not a guarantee for sustainable development."

Global demand is what makes this topic important now.

"As global demand surges, Africa’s opportunity is not just to supply minerals but also to shape the next phase of industrial development. The real policy challenge for African governments is to make sure the wealth from critical minerals benefits African economies and communities."

Arisekola believes that governments should clearly tell investors that adding local value along the mineral value chain is the priority. This is what creates a deal that both sides can accept.

He wants Nigeria to be the place where this is tested.

When asked what an international investor should know before coming to Abuja in November, his response is clear.

"First and foremost, all international investors coming to Abuja should understand that Nigeria is ready and open for business in minerals, mining, energy, and environmental issues. Nigeria’s economy is stable, safe, peaceful, and welcoming to all international investors."