By Stanley Onyeka, Lagos
The Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG), and the APO Group has announced a strategic partnership that aims to raise the global prominence of Africa’s critical minerals sector.
CMAG, which is dedicated to advancing responsible sourcing and sustainable development of Africa’s critical mineral resources, will leverage APO Group’s public relations and strategic communications expertise in this process.
in a joint statement, the partners noted that Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is estimated to hold approximately 40% of the world’s proven critical mineral reserves. Minerals like cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements are essential for the global energy transition and advanced technologies.
As demand for these resources rises, CMAG is committed to placing Africa at the centre of international discussions on critical minerals and associated supply chains while ensuring that the continent’s mineral wealth benefits local economies.
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is estimated to hold approximately 40% of the world’s proven critical mineral reserves. Minerals like cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements are essential for the global energy transition and advanced technologies.
“This partnership with APO Group marks a key step in our mission to position Africa as a leader in critical minerals,” said Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO of CMAG.
“By combining our expertise, we will amplify Africa’s voice in global conversations, influence policy and supply chain discussions, and unlock the full potential of Africa’s critical minerals.”
“We are thrilled to partner with the Critical Minerals Africa Group in shaping the future of Africa’s critical minerals industry,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group.
“Despite Africa’s central role in the global critical minerals industry, African policymakers, business leaders, and citizens struggle to influence vital discussions around policy and supply chains.
“This strategic partnership underscores APO Group’s commitment to advancing Africa’s empowerment and global prominence.”
The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts a sharp rise in demand for critical minerals: nickel demand is expected to double, cobalt demand to triple, and lithium demand to increase tenfold.
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), harnessing these resources effectively could boost Sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP by 12% or more by 2050.
