The Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG) has been launched to strengthen relationships between Africa and global markets, empower companies in Africa’s critical minerals sector, and unlock the continent’s vast potential. Sub-Saharan Africa is estimated to hold 30% of the world’s proven critical minerals reserves, making it pivotal in meeting the growing global demand for resources such as nickel, cobalt, and lithium—essential for green technologies.
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), properly harnessing these resources could boost Sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP by over 12% by 2050.
Despite its rich reserves, Africa’s influence in global critical minerals policy and supply chain discussions has been limited. CMAG aims to address this gap by enabling resilient and diversified supply chains that not only fuel global markets but also benefit local communities. The organisation will work to remove barriers to market entry, promote localisation, and foster sustainable growth across Sub-Saharan Africa. By bridging private and public sector interests, CMAG seeks to enhance Africa’s connectivity with Western markets while driving value-adding activities to accelerate economic development.
Also read: Critical Minerals Africa Summit 2024 highlights Africa’s role in global energy transition
CMAG will provide its members with access to funding, networking opportunities, and advocacy in discussions with governments, regulators, and other stakeholders. Additionally, it will offer messaging and branding support to position members as thought leaders in the global critical minerals industry. With these initiatives, CMAG is committed to creating enabling environments for businesses and ensuring that Africa’s critical minerals contribute significantly to the continent’s economic and social transformation.
Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO of CMAG, expressed her enthusiasm for the group’s mission, stating, “I am delighted to be part of a world-class team determined to foster deeper relationships between Africa and global markets and put Africa at the heart of international discussions surrounding critical minerals and associated supply chains.” As demand for green technologies surges, CMAG’s efforts promise to make Africa a central player in the critical minerals industry while ensuring sustainable development and equitable benefits for its people.
