Dele Alake: Africa needs uniformity to boost mineral development

By Idris Temidayo
Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, says there is a need for Africa to speak with one voice in developing mineral resources on the continent.
Alake said the Africa Minerals Strategy Group formed in 2024 is driving a uniformity in policy initiative and regulatory framework.
In a statement issued by Segun Tomori, his media assistant, the minister spoke on the sidelines of the Future Minerals forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Friday.
He stressed the need for an end to mineral exploitation on the continent, noting that Africa’s mineral resources have long been a key asset on the continent, hence the need for a cohesive strategy and uniform policies.
He added that the global shift towards green energy has placed a spotlight on the importance of minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel in powering the transition.
The minister also stressed the significance of local value addition, whereby minerals are processed locally to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
“As Africa navigates the transition towards green energy and sustainable mineral development, the role of the AMSG in driving policy coherence and regulatory alignment will be pivotal,” the statement reads.
“By fostering unity among African nations and promoting a shared vision for the sector, the group aims to reshape the narrative of mineral exploitation on the continent, with a focus on local value addition, technological transfer, and environmental sustainability.
“The AMSG is set to play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s mineral industry for the future.”