The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has called on African governments to ensure they become the main beneficiaries of the continent’s vast mineral resources, warning that long-standing patterns of exploitation must come to an end.
In a message shared on Monday, Guterres emphasised that Africa’s critical minerals — including lithium, cobalt and rare earth elements — are central to the global clean-energy transition and modern manufacturing, and should drive development within the continent rather than enrich external economies.
“We must make sure African countries benefit first and fully from their critical minerals through fair and sustainable value chains,” he said.
“The time has come to end the era of plundering and ensure Africa’s resources work for Africa’s people.”
The UN chief stressed that beyond extraction, African nations need stronger industrial policies that promote local processing, manufacturing and job creation. According to him, this shift is necessary not only for economic growth but also for global fairness in resource governance.
Guterres noted that the issue has been a recurring theme in his engagements with African leaders, including discussions linked to the African Union, where calls have grown for reforms that support industrialisation and equitable trade partnerships.
He argued that countries hosting mineral deposits should gain greater control over supply chains and attract investment that strengthens domestic industries.
“These resources should help create jobs, expand local industries and advance sustainable development,” he added.
Analysts say the remarks reflect rising global recognition of Africa’s strategic importance in future energy and technology supply networks, alongside mounting pressure for policies that move the continent away from raw-material export dependence toward higher-value production.
