The article ‘Critical mineral-rich Africa can look after itself’ published in the spring issue of The World Today addresses the capacity of African countries to make the most of the resources they may have. It correctly noted that leaders of these countries should assert ‘resource sovereignty’ for the benefit of their societies and economies. However, some of the examples it discusses are problematic.
Elite capture of Africa’s critical minerals mustn’t be mistaken for resource sovereignty
The exploitation of resource riches by unaccountable leaders is not the same as states stewarding mineral supplies for the benefit of their people, write Christopher Vandome and Tighisti Amare.
The World Today
Published 26 May 2026 — 3 minute READ
Image — An open-cast gold mine in Poura, Burkina Faso. Photo: DeAgostini / Getty Images.
