Critical Minerals
Critical Mineral Resources
Strategic value – the African narrative
In 2025, Mining Indaba reshaped the conversation around critical mineral resources by viewing their importance through a distinctly African lens. While minerals essential to the global Just Energy Transition remain central to Africa’s mining future, equal focus must be given to those driving the growth of emerging industrial powerhouses across the continent. At the heart of this year’s theme lies a deep understanding of Africa’s strategically valuable resources—and the vital role that strong, collaborative partnerships play in unlocking their full potential.
Sessions Spotlighting This Theme
Is the (re)surgency of coal investment real and going to last?
With Trump administration policy now embracing a 'clean coal industry' approach, the global energy debate is shifting once more. For Africa, where coal is abundant and affordable energy source, does this mark a green light for coal investment? This panel will explore if coal investment can align with sustainability mandates of institutional investors and whether new coal developments can coexist with Just Energy Transition (JET) commitments.
Speakers
Is the term “Critical Minerals” right for Africa?
The traditional definition for critical minerals was defined by the global north referring to minerals needed for the energy transition. Should Africa follow this definition, is it right for its development, and is there a clear way to avoid definition overload?
Speakers
Who will benefit from the geopolitical scramble for critical minerals in Africa?
Foreign powers including the US, Europe, China, and Middle Eastern players are racing to secure access to critical mineral supplies in Africa to safeguard the development of their own strategic industries - clean energy, defence, IT, etc. But will this process support the critical needs of African countries and communities for sustainable and just development – or will it end up entrenching the global and local inequalities and injustices of the past?
Speakers
Is resource nationalism paving the way for equitable global partnerships in critical minerals supply chains?
Those practising resource nationalism often seek to maximise revenue, stimulate industrial development and secure strategic control over strategic minerals. Often nations have much to gain during a commodity boom but are left in a weak bargaining position during a slump.When the world is looking for transition minerals, this can often scare foreign investors. Resource nationalism rebalancing traditional global trade partnerships; is it for the better of Africa?
Speakers
Moderator
The Critical Minerals value chain: How did China do it?
The panel will zero in on China's experience, shedding light on key aspects of its experience, successes and failures, and on what it means for Western governments, OEMs in key industries, their supply chains and the mining industry. The panel will include experts on these topics with granular knowledge to provide actionable insights for navigating the strategic materials competition that will define the next decade of global economic development.
Speaker
Moderator
Strategic Advisors
“At the Global Battery Alliance, we believe real progress comes when industries, governments, and communities join forces. The Indaba 2025 theme—‘Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships’—speaks directly to our mission. A sustainable battery value chain isn’t built in isolation; it’s forged through trust, innovative initiatives like the GBA’s Battery Passport, and shared responsibility. Together, we can power the global energy transition—ethically and equitably.”
“This theme is particularly relevant to the African mining industry in the context of public-private partnerships. The most successful projects are those that create value for all stakeholders—shareholders, local communities, and the state. Achieving this requires partnerships founded on clarity, transparency, and shared ambition, while also being closely aligned with the state's long-term economic policy. Well-defined terms and a common understanding of objectives are key to building trust and securing lasting commitment from all parties. Only through genuine collaboration and aligned interests can these partnerships drive sustainable development and deliver broad-based benefits.”
“Building dynamic partnership chains is fundamental to developing the African mineral value chain we need.”
Featured Articles & Insights
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Glencore’s assets in the DRC receive The Copper Mark
The plunge in copper prices and its impact on the mining sector
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The tariff shockwave: What does Trump’s trade policy mean for Africa?
Prioritizing access to critical minerals will require prioritizing Africa
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US seeking critical minerals partnerships with DRC
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Unlocking the future of manganese in Africa
Orom-Cross Graphite Project: Perspectives from inside a critical minerals project
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