Investment, regional cooperation key to African mineral value addition — MIIF CEO

Justina Nelson, CEO of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), has emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, investment, and geological data sharing to enhance mineral value addition and economic benefits across Africa. At a ministerial roundtable during the African Minerals Policy Forum in Accra, Nelson stressed that collaboration in investment, data sharing, and mineral processing would reinforce regional value chains and enable African nations to retain more value from their mineral resources.

The October 19 session at the Destiny Arena in Haatso gathered government representatives, continental institutions, and international development organizations to discuss strategies for transforming raw mineral exports into local processing and manufacturing. Nelson stressed that efficient management of mineral resources is crucial for securing long-term benefits for both current and future generations.

She highlighted the need for policies that attract investment and promote value addition throughout the mining value chain, which could generate jobs, bolster local industries, and boost economic returns.

Nelson also stressed the importance of sharing geological data to better understand Africa's critical mineral resources and identify opportunities for their effective utilization. She called for the effective implementation of existing policies and legislation, noting that commitments to beneficiation must translate into tangible investments and practical outcomes.

Participants at the conference identified affordable and reliable energy, access to finance, transport infrastructure, geological data, and technical skills as essential for viable mineral processing industries.

The conference's participants called for stronger regulatory frameworks and coordination among governments, investors, and development institutions. They also highlighted opportunities to process minerals like lithium into higher-value products. The Mining in Motion Conference, adopted by African Heads of State, aims to harness Africa's mineral resources for inclusive economic growth, industrialization, and sustainable development.