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8th May 2025 (11 Topics)

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.

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