Volts How can Africa benefit from the critical-minerals rush?
12 snips
Sep 19, 2025 In this discussion, Patrick Kipalu, a representative of the Rights and Resources Initiative, shares his insights on the potential for Africa to benefit from the critical minerals rush. He emphasizes the importance of indigenous land rights and community consent to prevent the historical resource curse. Kipalu highlights how these approaches can foster stable and equitable development. The conversation dives into geopolitical dynamics, the necessity of local governance reforms, and innovative models for benefit-sharing, aiming for a future where Africa's resources truly uplift its people.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Consent Is Cheaper Than Conflict
- Patrick Kipalu argues that informed community consent and land rights are essential for equitable mineral development.
- He states that "consent is cheaper than conflict" and necessary for stable, just investments.
Historical Resource-Abuse Examples
- Patrick cites Sierra Leone's diamonds and Angola's oil as past examples where resources harmed people.
- He stresses those cases show exploitation produced human-rights violations and left locals worse off.
Africa Supplies Critical Inputs
- Africa supplies large shares of key minerals (DRC supplies ~70% of cobalt) that power global tech and clean energy.
- Patrick warns land rights should be seen as enabling stable investment, not blocking it.