
She discusses why the global focus on energy transition, technology supply chains and industrial policy positions Africa at a pivotal moment in the rare earths space, and how these opportunities differ from traditional mining models on the continent.
Mandaza shares insights into how financiers are approaching entire value chains — from extraction through processing and refining — and highlights the financing instruments, partnerships and policy signals that help unlock long-term investment.
The conversation also examines what makes a rare earth project bankable, the complementary infrastructure and skills required to support sustainable growth, and the key gaps Africa must address to fully participate in global supply chains.
Looking ahead, she offers a perspective for investors considering the continent’s rare earth potential and the steps needed to translate resources into lasting economic transformation.

As the US–China rivalry deepens, Africa’s mineral wealth is emerging as both opportunity and leverage. The next ten years will determine whether the continent remains a source of raw materials - or becomes an industrial power in its own right.

In this exclusive conversation with Ben Magara, CEO of Exxaro Resources, our Product Director, Laura Nicholson, discusses Exxaro’s growth and diversification into manganese and renewable energy.

The value of a resource can change dramatically when processing, capital and ownership move closer to the point of production.