Yet ironically, both of these superpowers lack significant domestic reserves of many of these minerals. Africa, in contrast, hosts them, from cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo to lithium in Zimbabwe and platinum in South Africa .

But much of the value is lost externally. Raw minerals are exported, refined elsewhere, and packaged into high-value goods overseas.

This extract-then-enrich model leaves African countries dependent and undercompensated. The insight is simple: control over resources means control over the future — whether in energy, security, or technological development.

The narrative, however, is shifting. Across the continent, governments and entrepreneurs are pushing to recapture value. Ghana has established a new Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) to regulate gold trading, buy local output, and discourage smuggling.

Zimbabwe is making a bold move after banning raw lithium ore exports in 2022. The government plans to ban lithium concentrate exports starting January 2027, forcing downstream processing to occur domestically.

Still, challenges remain. Global lithium prices have collapsed from their highs, squeezing margins and putting pressure on miners to survive through volatility.

The geopolitical pressure is also intensifying as China has recently tightened its export controls on rare earths and related technologies, especially around defence and semiconductors, signalling a more assertive posture.

“We have no other occupations apart from the mining site,” she explains. “Going to the fields currently puts our lives at risk because of the ADF rebels,” she told Viory.

Armed groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have intensified attacks across eastern DRC, driving thousands from their homes. Local officials warn of daily displacement due to the worsening security crisis. “Mining is what keeps this population alive,” said Monga Mabanga Julio, the governor’s delegate in Njiapanda-Manguredjipa.

According to Oxfam , for every 3kg of Congolese cobalt, Tesla may generate over $3,000 in profit, while the Congolese government earns under $10 in royalties, and miners like Josephine receive barely $7.

Local leaders argue the mineral wealth could still rebuild the nation if managed properly.

“These reserves will allow the Congolese state to finance roads, hospitals, and schools ,” said Katembo Lughala Josue, a mining official.

Despite holding over 70% of the world ’s cobalt supply, the DRC’s mining industry remains plagued by insecurity, poverty, and exploitation.