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South Africa | Launch of Research Publications on Critical Minerals and Renewable Energy Value Chains
February 4 -6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
On February 4, 2025, the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) hosted the official launch of its six research publications on Critical Minerals and Renewable Energy Value Chains in Southern Africa. The event brought together policymakers, researchers, industry experts, and civil society representatives to discuss key findings, strategic recommendations, and pathways for local beneficiation, industrialization, and just energy transitions.
Key Highlights
- Presentation of Research Findings: The reports analyze critical minerals’ role in Africa’s energy transition, focusing on DRC, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Namibia, and Mozambique.
- Panel Discussions: Experts examined energy poverty, governance challenges, and the need for policy reforms to ensure Africa benefits from its mineral wealth.
- Calls for Local Industrialization: The reports emphasize reducing reliance on raw mineral exports and developing regional value chains for battery production and clean energy.
- Human Rights & Governance Focus: Discussions addressed the importance of transparency, fair labor practices, and equitable revenue sharing in the mining and energy sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Africa must shift from being a raw material exporter to a key player in the global energy transition.
- Governance and policy reforms are crucial to ensure communities benefit from critical mineral extraction.
- Investment in renewable energy and infrastructure is essential for sustainable industrial growth.
- A human rights-centered approach must guide mining and energy policies to protect workers and communities.
Download the Reports
📥 Access all six publications here: https://www.sarwatch.co.za/resources/
Closing Remarks
The event concluded with a call for multi-stakeholder collaboration to drive sustainable and equitable development in Africa’s mining and energy sectors. As SARW continues to advocate for responsible resource governance, these research findings will serve as a foundation for policy engagement and action.
