8th May 2025 (11 Topics)
1
May
2
May
3
May
5
May
6
May
7
May
8
May
9
May
Minerals in Africa
Context
The U.S. is pursuing a significant minerals deal in Africa's Great Lakes region, particularly focusing on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This initiative is a response to the M23 rebel group seizing control of key mining areas, threatening vital mineral resources.
Minerals Present in Africa
- Africa is rich in essential minerals, many of which are critical for global industries like electronics, renewable energy, and defense. The key minerals include:
- Tin, Tungsten, and Tantalum (3T minerals): These are important for electronics manufacturing, used in smartphones, laptops, and other technology.
- Cobalt: Crucial for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy technologies.
- Gold: Widely mined across the continent, used for various industrial and financial purposes.
- Copper: A key metal for electrical wiring, used in renewable energy infrastructure.
- Diamonds: Important for both industrial applications and luxury goods.
Key Locations
- Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Particularly in the Kivu provinces (North and South Kivu), the DRC is rich in tin, tungsten, coltan, and cobalt. The southern Katanga region is especially known for cobalt and copper.
- South Africa: Known for its platinum group metals (PGMs), gold, and diamonds.
- Zimbabwe: Rich in platinum, gold, and diamonds.
- Namibia: Significant sources of copper, zinc, and uranium.
- Ghana: One of the largest gold producers in Africa.
- Mozambique: Known for tantalum and coal.
These regions are central to the global minerals trade and face ongoing challenges related to conflict, illegal mining, and geopolitical competition.
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More
