Integrated Africa Power (IAP)’s Post

Pleased to share our new Carnegie Africa policy outlook on "Maximizing the Benefits of the Renewed Global Interest in Africa’s Strategic Minerals". Written by Folashadé Soulé, PhD, it summarizes the insights shared by the government, private sector and civil society participants of the workshop we convened during the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024 conference in Cape Town South Africa. A few highlights: - The workshop objectives were to share challenges and successes faced during the contract negotiation process for mining deals (including around "critical" minerals) and to consider how to maximize financial gains, create linkages to the domestic economy, build local supply chains, and comply with labor and environmental standards. - The workshop focused specifically on how African governments can best tackle the challenges and harness opportunities during the negotiation process—both from governments’ and investors’ perspectives. Several aspects of the process were covered: for instance, from the governments’ perspectives, how to prioritize policy frameworks and design a national strategy to define the “criticality” of minerals; and from the investors’ perspectives, how to better structure the negotiation process and ensure compliance with strict environment, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Lessons from the experience of other countries, especially Indonesia, were also shared. - Finally, the workshop covered the best ways African governments can bridge capacity gaps while dealing with investors and operating at the national and continental levels. Overall, the workshop allowed for candid discussions on how African countries can bolster their agency in the process and how key stakeholders can support the negotiation capacity of African governments. Our profound thanks to the workshop participants and the Investing in African Mining Indaba team. Read the full piece here: https://lnkd.in/e7tDnbhY #criticalminerals #batteryminerals #industrialization #energytransition

Thrilled to be in Lusaka today for the advocacy workshop on Promoting Awareness of Sustainable Mineral Resource Management Governance in Zambia and its Alignment with the Africa Mining Vision (AMV), hosted by the African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC) with the European Union. Mining contributes about 72% of Zambia's export earnings and 44% of government revenues. More than that, Zambia is strategically positioned in a region rich in minerals, including green/critical minerals. If Africa is to benefit from its green minerals, countries cannot go it alone - regional value chains will be essential. That is why the agreement between Zambia and the DRC to collaborate in developing EV battery value chains is so interesting. The workshop opened with a timely reminder by interim AMDC Director Marit Y. Kitaw of the centrality of Africa's green minerals to the continent's development ambitions. Mtwalo Msoni has done an excellent job taking us through the findings of the report. Wonderful to see the African Mining Vision, African Mineral Governance Framework and other tools making a very tangible difference in how we are able to engage with the mineral governance and value addition debates at country and regional level. Later today, we'll be doing a 'soft launch' of the forthcoming African Green Minerals Observatory, an extremely exciting AMDC initiative we have been supporting. I'll be joined up front by Marit and the always-impressive Claude Kabemba. Big things happening - watch this space! #criticalminerals #africandevelopment #zambia

What do you think of mining and resource management for the future of Africa? I have always thought of this; 1.      Economic Development: Mining is a significant contributor to many African economies. Understanding future trends can provide insights into economic growth and development opportunities. 2.      Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Effective resource management is essential for ensuring that mining practices are sustainable and environmentally friendly. This question can lead to discussions about balancing economic benefits with environmental protection. 3.      Technological Advancements: The future of mining in Africa will likely be influenced by technological advancements. Discussing this can provide a glimpse into how technology might improve efficiency, safety, and environmental impact. 4.      Political and Social Factors: Mining and resource management are often intertwined with political stability, governance, and social issues. This question can open up discussions about the role of government policies, corruption, and community relations in the mining sector. 5. Global Market Dynamics: Africa's mining sector is influenced by global demand for minerals and resources. This question can lead to an exploration of how global market trends, trade policies, and international relations will shape the future of mining in Africa I need to participate in this upcoming Indaba Tchota, the Alternative Mining Indaba in Angola is pleased to welcome the children of the SADC Region to this year’s SADC People’s Summit to be held from the 16th -18th of August at the ENAPP in Luanda under the inspiring theme Justice – Meaningful Participation – Inclusion. https://www.enapp.gov.ao/

Neocons keeping Kazakhstan in line with decarbonization. The US needs the contiguous Turkic alliance from Istanbul to Baku onto Central Asia to replace gas from Russia, and for Kazakhstan to use its Chinese Belt and Road infrastructure to do it; however this same reality doesn't allow for the Kazakh's to get rich from the East as well. Summary: "Authors recommend policies to prepare mining regions and towns in Kazakhstan for decarbonization with a goal of achieving just, equitable, and sustainable development." #kazakhstan #unitedstates #geopolitics #centralasia #eurasia #geopoliticalrisk #geopolitique #geopolitical #geopolitik #geopolitica #riskassessment #riskanalysis #china #beltandroad #azerbaijan

In the Fall of 2022, we convened a group of 16 Kazakh and U.S. experts to discuss and conduct research on issues that will shape Kazakhstan's future. They worked in groups to design and conduct policy-oriented research. Check out our first report by Madina Junussova Zarina Adambussinova and Alexander Diener on decarbonization and its impacts on mining towns. The report, which is based on fieldwork in Zhanaozen and Ekibastuz, points to three potential scenarios for the future of mining regions and towns (zero scenario, rapid transition and slow transition). The Kazakhstan Futures Program is supported by the U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan, Public Affairs Section. https://lnkd.in/eESy5c64

The relaunch of Mopani Copper Mines marks a transformative chapter for Kitwe, the Copperbelt, and the broader Zambian mining industry. This pivotal event, celebrated with President Hakainde Hichilema’s commendation, signifies a major economic transformation driven by the strategic partnership with International Resources Holding (IRH) from Abu Dhabi. The collaborative venture, which ensures a 49% shareholding for Zambian citizens through ZCCM-IH, is a testament to a future of shared prosperity and sustainable development. IRH's investment of $1.1 billion, a significant gesture from the United Arab Emirates, opens new horizons for Zambia, potentially catalyzing further investments in green energy and beyond. This move not only solidifies Zambia’s economic trajectory but also sets a precedent for international partnerships characterized by mutual respect and equitable benefits. The initiation of the Supplier Development Program by Mopani underscores a commitment to local economic empowerment, promising to enhance the capabilities of Zambian businesses through crucial support in capital access and business development. This initiative is pivotal in fostering a sustainable economic ecosystem that benefits local suppliers and the community at large. As Zambia looks to the UAE’s remarkable success in transforming its economy through resource management, this partnership with IRH heralds a new era of economic development and international cooperation. The heartfelt gratitude expressed by the Zambian government to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nahyan reflects the deep appreciation for the support that has been pivotal in strengthening the ties between Zambia and the UAE. The Mopani Copper Mines relaunch is more than a corporate milestone; it’s a beacon of hope for Zambia’s future, promising economic growth, local empowerment, and a sustainable path forward for the nation's mining sector. #zambia #miningsector #economicempowerment #economicgrowth #sustainability #resourcemanagement #sustainabledevelopment

The Mining Indaba began on Monday with remarks from the South African and Zambian presidents, Prime Minister of the DRC and the South African Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy. Whilst they admitted a number of challenges facing the sector - including high commodity and energy prices and geopolitical challenges, it was great to hear success stories from leveraging on technology in defining the orebody and improving productivity. All the 3 Governments stressed on local beneficiation and social responsibility and reiterated their commitment to keep improving the mining investment climate. The highlight of the day was the #Tanzania Country showcase by the The Ministry of Minerals of Tanzania in collaboration with the Tanzania Chamber of Mines (TCM) that featured remarks by the Permanent Secretary of the The Ministry of Minerals of Tanzania - Kheri Mahimbali, an address by the Deputy Minister for Minerals - Dr Steven Kiruswa, followed by the Geological Survey of Tanzania among other speakers that highlighted the country’s massive mineral endowment and #investment opportunities in Tanzania. The session was also graced by a panel discussion by the existing investors - AngloGold Ashanti, Barrick Gold Corporation, Tembo Nickel, TRX Gold Corporation and Black Rock Mining Ltd, telling their story on factors that led their investment in Tanzania, such as the quality of the assets, political stability and Government’s commitment to the sector. #MI24

This year’s Investing in African Mining Indaba did not disappoint! On its 30th anniversary – with new programming – the #DistruptiveDiscussions brought forth many opportunities to engage with traditional and new collaborators, exchange ideas and shape the future of the African mining sector and its ever-increasing range of stakeholders. We were privileged to be counted among the #VoicesofDisruption, through multiple panel discussions – covering topics from the impact of mineral export bans on investment opportunities; the environmental sustainability of key green minerals; and how new technology is changing exploration; to what a successful business relationship between car manufacturers and African miners looks like. Adjacent forums such as the annual DRC Breakfast and Invest Africa Ltd Mining Series provided further opportunities to connect and explore the possibilities that lie ahead for the African mining industry. Eurasian Resources Group was also proud to facilitate valuable conversations and cross-sector collaborations, by sponsoring the networking and exchange hub – The MINE. #MiningIndaba2024 #PositiveDisruption #PoweringPossibility #AfricanMiningIndaba #TeamERG

Mining in Africa is a topic that can be discussed endlessly. It's a critical show of interest on how the giant Asian country, and the European have come to invest in the rich continent. The rich continent as described by some quarters as a continent with complex web of great power competition, security concerns, and conflicting interests, that has resulted into poverty, diseases and retrogressive economic growth. It has been further described as a place where the pursuit of economic growth and resource riches is intertwined with the struggle for responsible mining practices, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. The concern here is not in relation to the government or leaders, but on what to do to make the Africa mining situation better for economic growth. The article described some problems associated to the development of the sector in Africa and also prescribed some solutions that can lead to significant increment in the developmental framework. A must read: https://lnkd.in/et-wmcXd

EXTRA EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT!   Lili Nupen, Methembeni Moyo, and Vanessa Stander wrote for Business Day about the Lobito Corridor and it's vision to reduce travel time from 30 days to eight days. Considering the volatility of commodity prices, the ability to transport minerals from mine to port where they can be exported in as little time and for the lowest possible cost, is crucial in ensuring that these commodities fetch the best possible price at the right time, which is in turn crucial to the survival of the mining sector and the Southern African economy. Read more below. #CriticalRawMinerals #MiningLaw #EnergyLaw #EnvironmentalLaw