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South Africa – International Dialogue on Strategic Minerals and Energy Transition in Southern Africa
April 29, 2024 -9:00 am - April 30, 2024 -5:00 pm

On the 29th and 30th of April 2024, the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) successfully hosted a high-level international dialogue in Pretoria. The dialogue focused on strategic minerals essential for the global energy transition, such as cobalt, lithium, rare earth elements, and graphite. Participants included representatives from governments, the private sector (including mineral producers), international organizations, and civil society groups, both regionally and internationally.
The main aim of the dialogue was to discuss the role of these strategic minerals in renewable energy value chains. Key discussions revolved around initiatives aimed at linking these minerals to efforts for increased regional production of green technologies. Notably, the dialogue explored the implications of the DRC-Zambia cooperation agreement, which seeks to manufacture electric batteries in both countries. Participants engaged in extensive conversations exploring how the extraction, commercialization, and use of transition minerals could support a fair energy transition, especially benefiting energy-poor communities in Southern Africa.
Throughout the event, stakeholders shared insights, experiences, and best practices regarding the sustainable extraction and use of strategic minerals. There was a consensus on the need for comprehensive strategies that prioritize environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and economic development. Additionally, participants stressed the importance of fostering partnerships between governments, the private sector, and civil society to ensure that the benefits of mineral extraction are fairly distributed, particularly among marginalized communities.
Several key outcomes emerged from the dialogue:
1. Recognition of the Importance of Strategic Minerals: Participants acknowledged the critical role that strategic minerals play in advancing the global energy transition and achieving climate goals.
2. Emphasis on Sustainable Practices: There was agreement on the need to adopt sustainable practices throughout the lifecycle of strategic minerals, from extraction to end-use.
3. Call for Collaboration and Partnership: Stakeholders emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership between governments, the private sector, and civil society to ensure a fair energy transition that benefits all communities, especially those most vulnerable to energy poverty.
4. Exploration of Regional Opportunities: Discussions centered on exploring regional opportunities for the production and use of green technologies, with a particular focus on leveraging the potential of the DRC-Zambia cooperation agreement.
The SARW High-Level International Dialogue provided a platform for constructive engagement and collaboration among diverse stakeholders committed to advancing a fair energy transition in Southern Africa and beyond. Moving forward, it is crucial to translate the insights and commitments generated during the dialogue into tangible actions that promote sustainable development and equitable access to energy resources in the region.