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

Justina Nelson, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), has called for stronger regional cooperation to boost mineral value addition and economic benefits across Africa.

‎‎She said collaboration in investment, geological data sharing and mineral processing would strengthen regional value chains and help African countries retain more value from their mineral resources. ‎

‎Mrs Nelson made the call at a ministerial roundtable on mineral value addition and beneficiation during the African Minerals Policy Forum (Mining in Motion Conference) in Accra, a release shared with the Ghana News Agency said.

‎‎The October 19 session, held at the Destiny Arena in Haatso, brought together government representatives, continental institutions and international development organisations to discuss strategies for shifting from raw mineral exports to local processing and manufacturing.

‎‎Mrs Nelson said efficient management of mineral resources was essential to securing lasting benefits for present and future generations.

‎‎She said policies to attract investment and promote value addition across the mining value chain could create jobs, strengthen local industries and increase economic returns.

‎‎Mrs Nelson stressed the need to share geological data to improve understanding of Africa’s critical mineral resources and identify opportunities for their effective utilisation.

‎‎She also called for effective implementation of existing policies and legislation, saying commitments to beneficiation must translate into tangible investment and practical outcomes.

‎‎Participants identified affordable and reliable energy, access to finance, transport infrastructure, geological data and technical skills as key requirements for viable mineral processing industries.

‎‎They called for stronger regulatory frameworks and coordination among governments, investors and development institutions, highlighting opportunities to process minerals such as lithium into higher-value products.

‎‎The Mining in Motion Conference (AMPF-MiM), a platform adopted by African Heads of State, seeks to harness Africa’s mineral resources for inclusive economic growth, industrialisation and sustainable development.