The World Economic Forum (WEF) released a new report today underscoring the urgent need to increase investment in Southern Africa’s critical minerals to meet growing demand for clean energy and low-carbon technologies. The report points to major financing gaps and offers case studies aimed at accelerating investment, fostering inclusive growth, and positioning the region as vital to the global energy transition.

Sub-Saharan Africa holds nearly 30% of known global reserves of minerals essential for low-carbon technologies, including copper, cobalt, lithium, graphite, manganese, chromium, vanadium, and platinum-group metals. However, the continent receives less than 10% of global exploration spending, highlighting a sharp disconnect between potential and funding.