Africa
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in Africa
Africa's journey towards renewable energy is rich with opportunities, set against a backdrop of unique supply chain and mining challenges. The continent's abundant solar, wind, and hydro resources, coupled with significant reserves of critical minerals like cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements, position Africa as a vital player in the global energy transition. Harnessing these resources presents a transformative opportunity for economic development, energy access, and sustainability across African nations. However, navigating the complexities of establishing robust supply chains and mitigating mining risks is crucial for unlocking this potential. Supply chain challenges, including infrastructural deficits, logistical bottlenecks, and regulatory inconsistencies, necessitate innovative solutions and international cooperation to ensure reliable and efficient mineral extraction and renewable energy production. Furthermore, addressing environmental concerns and social impacts of mining activities is essential for sustainable development. By leveraging technological advancements, fostering regional collaboration, and adopting best practices in resource management, Africa can overcome these hurdles, turning its rich natural endowments into engines of growth and pillars of a sustainable future.
Latest news and insights
Stay ahead in the energy transition with SFA (Oxford)’s cutting-edge insights into how critical minerals, renewable energy, ESG frameworks, and global partnerships are positioning Africa at the heart of sustainable growth and future supply chains.
Declaring a US Trade Emergency
3 April 2025 | Jamie Underwood
The US declared a trade emergency, imposing sweeping tariffs, rare exemptions, and bold legal moves. What triggered it, and what will happen next?
Congo bans cobalt exports from DRC
25 February 2025 | Rj Coetzee
In a significant move to address the oversupply in the cobalt market, the DRC's ARECOMS announced a four-month suspension of cobalt exports
Annex-I: Adjusted US Reciprocal Tariffs Country List
2 April 2025 | White House
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.
Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer
Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research
Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant
Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead
Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies
How can we help you?
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