MSMEs Key to Unlocking Africa’s Critical Minerals Wealth, Says PS Susan Mang’eni

The Principal Secretary for MSME Development, Susan Auma Mang’eni, has called for stronger integration of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Africa’s mining value chains to ensure the continent’s vast critical mineral wealth translates into meaningful economic gains.

Speaking after participating in the Critical Minerals Partnerships forum in emerging markets hosted by Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, in Istanbul, Ms Mang’eni noted that Africa holds a significant share of the world’s critical mineral deposits at a time when global demand is rapidly rising.

“The world is experiencing exponential demand in critical minerals, yet the fundamental question for Africa remains how these resources can effectively benefit its population,” she said.

For decades, she observed, the continent’s mineral wealth has often been described as a “curse of abundance,” with limited structures in place to convert natural resources into inclusive economic growth. This, she added, has contributed to persistent poverty, rising youth unemployment and, in some regions, conflict.

Ms Mang’eni emphasised that MSMEs— which form the backbone of most African economies—present a crucial entry point for investment and participation in the mining ecosystem.

“Strengthening MSMEs through access to technology, unlocking blended financing, and creating structured markets will enable Africa to harness the full value of its mineral resources,” she said.

She also underscored the importance of mainstreaming artisanal and small-scale mining as a priority value chain, noting that formalising the sector would enhance productivity, improve livelihoods and expand economic opportunities for local communities.

The PS further reiterated the need for Africa to shift from exporting raw minerals to producing processed and value-added products, aligning with the agenda championed by President William Ruto.

“This transition is critical to accelerating economic growth and ensuring that our critical minerals endowment contributes meaningfully to improving livelihoods,” she said.

Her remarks come amid increasing global competition for critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies, positioning Africa as a strategic player in the evolving global economy.

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