China’s rare earth metal mining in Africa is challenged by the West

Experts have long predicted a rush for rare earth elements that will power the green energy revolution
Experts have long predicted a rush for rare earth elements that will power the green energy revolution
WALDO SWIEGERS/BLOOMBERG VIA GETTY IMAGES

Western countries are turning to Africa in their quest to loosen China’s grip on the critical minerals used to make electric cars, mobile phones, semiconductors and even fighter jets.

A newly formed Minerals Security Partnership comprising Britain, the United States, the European Union and other wealthy countries gathered several mineral-rich nations on the sidelines of the UN general assembly last week to discuss mining projects. Those invited included Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Experts have long predicted a global rush for the minerals and rare earth elements that will power the green energy revolution. However, China dominates the supply chain, having secured mining deals across Africa and Latin America. In 2019, 80 per cent of America’s rare earth imports