African countries rich in critical minerals are ramping up their collaboration with global stakeholders to enhance investments throughout the critical mineral value chain. The Critical Minerals International Alliance (CMIA) is reaffirming its commitment to fostering responsible, diversified and secure supply chains by partnering with this year’s Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit. Olimpia Pilch, CMIA’s Chief Operating Officer, will emphasize the importance of international collaboration for overcoming industry challenges and seizing opportunities.
African nations are leveraging international technologies and expertise to boost critical mineral exploration, reserves and production, contributing to GDP growth. For instance, in July 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), home to the world’s fourth-largest copper reserves, resumed operations at the Kipushi Mine in collaboration with Canadian firm Ivanhoe Mines. This partnership is set to enhance output from 140,000 to 960,000 tons per annum, significantly boosting DRC’s copper production.
“Partnerships with global markets are pivotal for African countries to optimize their critical mineral value chains. To fully exploit their mineral potential for economic growth, Africa needs to engage with the international community to access necessary funding and technological expertise for infrastructure and production,” explained Rachelle Kasongo, Project Director at Energy Capital & Power, the CMA organizer.
In Zambia, the acquisition of a 51% stake in Mopani Copper Mines by UAE-based International Resources Holding (IRH) for $1.1 billion in March 2024 is set to increase output from 72,694 metric tons in 2022 to 200,000 metric tons in the next three years. This partnership is key to Zambia’s goal of raising copper production to 3 million tons by 2032 from 2.2 million tons in 2021.
Zimbabwe is also advancing its lithium industry through collaborations with Chinese investors. In April 2024, Rwizi Rukuru, a Chinese mining firm, completed a lithium processing plant in Mutoko, while Shengxiang Investments finished constructing a facility in Goromonzi in March 2024.
At the CMA Summit, Pilch will address how geopolitical factors influence Africa’s critical mineral sector, building on last year’s discussions. Her participation in high-level panels will explore how global trends are shaping investments in Africa’s critical mineral industry.
