ZAThe article discusses the growing global interest in critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are essential for modern technology and renewable energy. It draws parallels between this 'new scramble' for Africa's resources and the historical colonial exploitation of the continent's natural wealth. While acknowledging the potential for economic development, the piece warns against repeating past patterns where mineral wealth fueled conflict, corruption, and inequality. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is highlighted as both a resource-rich nation and a cautionary example of how mineral extraction can exacerbate social and political instability. South Africa is noted for its vast mineral reserves but is criticized for failing to convert these into widespread prosperity. The author argues that Africa must shift from merely exporting raw materials to developing local industries and technologies to fully benefit from its mineral wealth.
Bias read (Center): While the article presents a critical view of historical and current patterns of resource exploitation, it does not take a clearly left or right ideological stance. Instead, it advocates for a balanced approach—recognizing the importance of critical minerals for global progress while emphasizing the
