Africa’s critical minerals race is becoming a competition for investment, says former DRC Assembly President

Jeanine Mabunda warns mineral wealth alone will not deliver prosperity as countries compete for global capital 

London, UK – Wednesday 22 July 2026 — Africa cannot assume investment will follow its mineral wealth as the global race for critical minerals intensifies, according to Jeanine Mabunda, Managing Director of Crysos Cooperative.and former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s National Assembly.

Speaking today at the Royal African Society’s 125th Anniversary event at the London Stock Exchange, Mabunda said the next phase of African mining will be defined not only by the minerals a country possesses but by its ability to attract investment, build confidence and create long-term partnerships. 

“The global race for critical minerals is no longer simply about access to resources. It is becoming a competition for investment, confidence and trusted partnerships.” 

Demand for minerals essential to clean energy, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and digital technologies is accelerating, placing Africa at the centre of a major global economic shift. 

However, Mabunda warned that geological advantage alone will not guarantee investment. 

“Natural resources alone do not create prosperity - but strategy does. The countries that attract investment will be those that provide confidence, stability and a shared vision for long-term growth.” 

Mabunda said Africa’s opportunity is to move beyond a transactional relationship based solely on resources and build strategic partnerships with investors, businesses and international markets. 

“Africa’s opportunity isn’t just in supplying the minerals that power the global economy but becoming a strategic partner in building that economy.” 

Mabunda is a lawyer and strategic adviser with experience spanning government, mining and corporate governance. She was the first woman elected President of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the first woman appointed to the board of Randgold Resources, now part of Barrick Gold. 

Through Crysos Cooperative, she advises governments, investors and businesses on African investment strategy, governance, stakeholder engagement and long-term partnerships.

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Editors notes

Crysos Cooperative is a specialist advisory firm providing strategic counsel on mining and natural resources, geopolitical risk, governance, stakeholder engagement and public affairs. It focuses on helping organisations build trusted partnerships, strengthen investment confidence and deliver sustainable long-term value in Africa. https://crysos-africa.com