A high-level conference in Accra has concluded with a strong call for African governments to adopt a new governance framework for critical minerals. This framework places transparency, democratic accountability, industrialisation, and citizen participation at the centre of the continent's critical minerals agenda. The three-day event, held from July 27 to 29 at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, brought together senior government officials, African Union representatives, and civil society organisations.
The conference, convened by the Open Society Foundations (OSF), addressed the rising global demand for critical minerals. These minerals are essential for the energy transition and advanced technologies. Participants examined how Africa can ensure its vast mineral wealth contributes to inclusive development, democratic resilience, and sustainable peace. This approach aims to prevent conflict and inequality often associated with resource extraction.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to leverage its natural resources for sustainable growth. Ghana, a significant gold producer, understands the importance of effective resource management. The call for better governance reflects a continent-wide push to move beyond raw material export. African nations seek to build local industries and create more value from their resources. This shift is crucial for long-term economic stability and job creation across the continent.
Tem Mbuh, Programme Manager for Transformative Peace in Africa at the Open Society Foundations, delivered the closing reflections. He stated that Africa's future in the global critical minerals economy depends on the quality of governance surrounding these resources. Mr. Mbuh cited Cameroon as an example, where only 148 kilogrammes of gold were officially exported between 2021 and 2025. However, more than 44 tonnes of Cameroonian gold were recorded in Dubai during the same period. This disparity represents an estimated US$3.4 billion in lost value, highlighting significant governance challenges.
The conference identified five strategic priorities for critical mineral governance. These include recognising critical minerals as a governance issue, not just a mining issue. Other priorities are integrating peacebuilding into mineral governance and promoting value addition and industrialisation. Placing communities at the centre of decision-making and strengthening regional cooperation through African institutions are also key. These measures aim to ensure that mineral revenues benefit local populations and national economies.
Mr. Mbuh urged governments to channel mineral revenues into industrialisation, technology, education, environmental restoration, and community development. He also called for stronger enforcement of mining laws and greater citizen participation. Protection of civic space and accelerated implementation of the Africa Mining Vision and African Union critical minerals policies are also vital. These steps are necessary to prevent mineral wealth from becoming another chapter in the history of extraction.
Leela Ramdhani, Chief Operating Officer of the Open Society Foundations, described the conference as a timely platform. It brought together policymakers, researchers, and civil society organisations to forge new partnerships. Ms. Ramdhani emphasized the urgency of developing coordinated and inclusive governance systems. These systems must ensure Africa's abundant critical mineral resources become a source of prosperity and sustainable development. This approach will help avoid conflict and exploitation.
Ms. Ramdhani cautioned that mineral wealth alone would not guarantee prosperity. She stressed that benefits would depend on the integrity of governance systems and the strength of democratic institutions. Meaningful participation of historically marginalised communities in decisions concerning their natural resources is also crucial. The intensifying geopolitical competition for strategic minerals presents both opportunities and risks. This makes it imperative for governments to adopt integrated governance models.