2026 Agenda Sessions

Powering the future – The World Bank Group’s support to Africa’s minerals and metals

This Industry Intel Session will spotlight the World Bank Group’s minerals and metals approach and its holistic, multisectoral support to Africa’s mining and energy transition priorities. The discussion will explore how Africa’s mineral endowment can be transformed into broad-based and lasting development through responsible exploration and production, improved governance, investment in critical infrastructure, value addition, skills development, and meaningful private-sector engagement.  

Through a high-level dialogue between government representatives, industry leaders, investors, and the World Bank Group, the session will examine practical pathways to collaboration and delivery. Panelists will discuss what success looks like from their perspectives, where support is most needed, and how public and private actors can jointly shape competitive, resilient, and inclusive mineral value chains across the continent.  

The session will feature a forward-looking conversation informed by real implementation experience, case examples, and market developments. It will help define priorities, highlight opportunities, and reinforce partnerships that position Africa as a leader in the global energy transition.

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Refining the opportunity – Investing in African critical minerals value chains

As the race for critical minerals intensifies, Africa is evolving from a supplier of raw materials into an emerging hub for processing and advanced manufacturing. This panel explores the next phase of value creation from midstream to downstream development. What makes a beneficiation project bankable in today’s climate, how are investors evaluating risk, and what role do co-investment structures, tax incentives, and strategic offtakes play.

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Can global coordination finally turn ASGM reform into real progress?

ASGM is expanding fast, along with illicit trade and security risks. This session examines how coordinated global action, through better traceability, processing and enforcement, can help governments formalise the sector and deliver measurable progress. 

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Gulf capital meets African mining potential

As Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Oman entering the global mining value chain, their capital is reshaping African deal flow. This panel will unpack what Gulf investors want, how they evaluate risk, and where African projects fit in their critical minerals’ strategies.

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