António Guterres Calls for Africa to Benefit First from Its Critical Minerals
UN chief urges fair use of resources and end to exploitation
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada 20/2/2026
The head of the United Nations has called for African countries to take primary control of the economic benefits from their vast mineral wealth, stressing that the continent must no longer be exploited for its natural resources without meaningful returns.
Speaking on the growing global demand for critical minerals, António Guterres emphasized that Africa’s natural wealth should drive local development, job creation, and industrial growth rather than simply supplying raw materials to foreign markets.
Push for fair value and sustainable development
Guterres highlighted the importance of building fair and sustainable systems that allow African nations to fully benefit from their mineral resources. He stressed the need for stronger industrial policies that encourage local processing, manufacturing, and value addition.
Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements are essential for modern technologies, including clean energy solutions, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing. Many of these resources are found in large quantities across African countries, making the continent central to the global energy transition.
However, African nations have long argued that existing trade systems often leave them with limited economic gains while other regions profit from refining and manufacturing.
Call for stronger industrial growth in Africa
The UN chief urged international partners to support Africa’s industrialization efforts, enabling countries to move beyond exporting raw materials and instead build local industries around their natural resources.
He noted that fair partnerships and responsible investment can help create employment opportunities, strengthen economies, and promote long-term development across the continent.
According to Guterres, ensuring that African countries gain greater control over their resources is not only an economic issue but also a matter of justice and global equity.
Rising global competition for mineral resources
The statement comes at a time when demand for critical minerals is increasing worldwide, driven by technological innovation and the transition toward renewable energy. This growing competition has renewed global interest in Africa’s resource-rich regions.
Experts say the shift presents both opportunities and challenges for African economies, highlighting the importance of policies that prioritise local benefits while maintaining sustainable development.
A growing call for economic fairness
The renewed push for equitable resource management reflects broader discussions about global trade, investment practices, and development priorities. Many African leaders and policymakers have consistently called for reforms that ensure the continent’s resources contribute directly to its economic progress.
The debate is expected to continue as governments, international organizations, and private investors seek new ways to balance global demand with local development needs.
