In the current critical mineral rush, African States are saying the right things. More local value addition, more local content, more benefits for African countries from the mining sector. Good.
However, to move beyond strong declarations into the type of systemic action that this type of sector transformation requires, African governments will have to take a hard look at themselves and ask the tough question. Are we FUNCTIONAL enough to produce the results that we desire?
Functionality can be evaluated and improved on at least 3 levels in all areas of governance. In the mining sector this translates into certain basics.
PRESENCE & EFFECTIVENESS
- Are laws, policies and regulations rights-based? Is the legal framework in place to ensure the rights of citizens, first and foremost, as well as those of artisanal miners, companies and the State itself are effectively exercised and guaranteed?
- Are citizens empowered to organize for the defense and promotion of their rights? Worker’s unions, trade associations, media, women miners, artisanal miners, human rights defenders. Are key stakeholders safe to organize, make their voices heard and be effective actors in decision-making?
- Are the institutions to ensure rights protection and law and order in place? Local courts, police, mediation, health systems, etc. must run effectively.
HOPE & ADAPTABILITY
SAFETY & SUSTAINABILITY
- Are States present in often rural and remote mining areas with administrative services, infrastructure, rules and regulations to make mining a better governed, more productive sector?Adding value locally is highly energy intensive.
- Are African States present and effective with the energy required in mining areas?
- Are local governments functional enough to enforce regulations, protect rights, mediate conflicts and make mining a lever for local economic development
- Is mining being done in ways that create hope through jobs, entrepreneurship, use of technology, opportunities for youth and women from local communities?
- Are local traditions and history being integrated into today and tomorrow’s mining strategies? Africans have been mining for centuries. They have techniques, practices and a history that must be integrated into building the future.
- Are we mining in ways that guarantee land, water and air remain viable for all other aspects of community livelihoods. Are we restoring the damage done and licensing in ways that preserve the environment for citizens today and in the future?
There is no doubt that this moment of critical minerals is critical for Africa’s growth and development. There is also no doubt that as Africans, if we do not resolve questions of fundamental functionality, we will once again be the losers in this era’s mining bonanza. We must and can do better.
