
He unpacks what the shift from extraction to innovation looks like in practice, the policy and regulatory reforms needed to unlock diversification, and how downstream buyers, manufacturers, and the mining industry can collaborate to enable local value addition. Shango also discusses practical mechanisms to de-risk beneficiation and advanced manufacturing projects, the evolving role of public-private partnerships, and the most realistic wins Africa can aim for by the end of the decade.
Looking ahead, he reflects on the risks Africa faces if it fails to transform today’s critical-minerals opportunity into lasting economic capability — and the single most important reform needed to drive sustainable growth and innovation across the continent.
Mining Indaba 2027 is where African and global mining leaders come together to connect and shape the future. Exhibit, sponsor, or register today —don’t miss out!

As African governments tighten their grip on natural resources, a critical gap is emerging between policy and fiscal reality.
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Mining and metals production depends on water. It is essential for extraction, mineral processing, dust suppression, cooling, transport and site operations.

In 2019 I flew over Brumadinho in Brazil and saw the devastation caused by the tailings dam failure. I had already spent years working alongside Brazilian authorities after the Fundão tailings failure, which killed 19 people.