Critical minerals such as cobalt, copper, graphite, lithium, manganese, and platinum-group metals are vital components in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and energy storage solutions. Southern Africa holds close to 30 percent of global reserves of these essential materials, yet receives less than 10 percent of worldwide exploration funding. Bridging this investment gap is crucial for strengthening global supply chains and fostering inclusive economic development across the region.
A new report developed under the Securing Minerals for the Energy Transition (SMET) initiative—led by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with the Development Bank of Southern Africa and McKinsey & Company as a knowledge partner—analyzes the financial and structural barriers hindering the growth of critical mineral value chains in the region. Drawing on insights from diverse stakeholders, the study presents actionable strategies to attract investment, reduce risks, and scale up local processing capabilities.
The report highlights successful case studies that demonstrate how infrastructure development, policy reforms, and public-private partnerships can enhance investor confidence. By enabling greater domestic value addition and building resilient supply networks, Southern Africa can emerge as a strategic contributor to the global clean energy transition. Unlocking the region’s mineral wealth could not only boost local economies but also support the world’s shift toward sustainable technologies.
— news from The World Economic Forum
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Southern Africa Minerals
Critical minerals are essential to the energy transition, powering electric vehicles, renewable energy systems and energy storage technologies. Southern Africa holds nearly 30% of the world’s reserves, including cobalt, copper, graphite, lithium, manganese and platinum-group metals, yet attracts less than 10% of global exploration financing. Unlocking this potential is critical to strengthening global supply resilience and driving inclusive growth across the region. n nThis report, developed under the Securing Minerals for the Energy Transition (SMET) initiative by the World Economic Forum, the Development Bank of Southern Africa and McKinsey & Company as a knowledge partner, identifies financing barriers and practical solutions to scale critical minerals value chains in Southern Africa. Drawing on multistakeholder consultations, it highlights replicable case studies that can de-risk investment, build infrastructure, support local value addition, and position Southern Africa as a key player in the global clean energy economy.