Mining sector across Africa is seriously in need of international support for growth.
As it is most African economies are fraught with challenges.
A rich domestic value addition from the mining industry will greatly impact the economy in a positive way.
The Minister of Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has advocated for support to drive value addition domestically in the mining sector.
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Alake called for international support for mining industry in Africa.
He said this was critical for the development of the mining industry and Africa’s economy.
Alake in a statement on Thursday, said as the world is striving to achieve net zero environmental impact in all mining operations.
Emphasis should shift to local value addition against the age-long practice of carting away raw mineral resources.
He noted that for Nigeria and most of Africa, the idea of a super region was quite significant to harness the mosaic, distinctive mineral resources within the super regions and consequently achieve a sustainable energy mix for the world.
The minister revealed that the country had begun prioritising the development of its critical minerals and rare earth metals.
According to Mr Alake,
“The idea of inclusivity in a super region entails collaborative efforts, not only in the area of investments.
But also in technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and, more importantly, for us in Africa, local value addition.
The minister added, “In Africa, we know we need a lot of infrastructural development.
That is why the significance of the super region can not be overemphasised.
“The onus falls on us all to map out strategies of creating concrete alliances and integration of our economic interests.”
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Africa, holds a significant percentage of critical minerals, which are now in demand around the world.
Alake pointed out that as the world transitions to green energy, Africa, can no longer be contented with being given the shorter end of the stick.