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Focus Area

Mining, Trade & Industry

Responsible Resources for Inclusive Economic Development

Africa is well endowed with mineral resources harbouring the world's largest mineral reserve of platinum, gold, diamonds, chromite, manganese, and vanadium (UNECA). However, according to the African Review report on Mining, 2009, most of these minerals are exported as ores, concentrates or metals without significant downstream processing to add value leading to low economic benefit to Africa. Africa conceived a mining Vision to advocate for transparent, equitable and optimal exploitation of mineral resources to underpin broad-based sustainable growth and socio-economic development. Therefore, the untapped mineral potential can help African leapfrog to industrialised economy if value added.

Key Research Areas

Extractive Industry Governance

Strengthening transparency, accountability, and revenue management in Africa's mining and petroleum sectors to maximise development impact.

Trade & Regional Integration

Analysing trade policy frameworks, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and regional value chains to promote inclusive industrial growth.

Just Transition in Industry

Supporting African industries to transition toward cleaner, more sustainable production methods while protecting livelihoods and promoting decent work.

Key Themes
  • Responsible mining governance
  • Trade policy and regional integration
  • Industrial transformation strategies
  • Resource revenue management
  • Environmental and social safeguards
  • Artisanal and small-scale mining

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