- The Critical Minerals and Metals Strategy outlines a clear and coordinated roadmap to leverage the country’s natural resources in a manner that promotes inclusive growth, industrial development, job creation, and economic transformation.
- It prioritises exploration, beneficiation at source, research and development, regional integration, financial instruments and energy security, guided by our constitutional commitment to environmental sustainability, social justice, and economic equity.
- The country lists coal as a critical mineral
By implementing this strategy, South Africa hopes to create a self- sustaining industrial base that generates high-value products, supports downstream industries, and fosters higher rates of job creation: Advanced processing capabilities will position the country as a global player in critical mineral value chains, particularly in emerging sectors such as renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, green hydrogen and advanced manufacturing.
List of high critical minerals and metals for South Africa. Image credit: DMPR
“This strategy recognises that the future of our country is inextricably linked to how we develop and manage our mineral wealth. By strengthening our industrial base and increasing our capacity for value addition, we can unlock significant employment opportunities, stimulate innovation, and advance our economic growth priorities.
It is also a call to action urging the public and private sectors, development partners, investors, and communities to work together to unlock the full potential of our critical minerals. It underscores the importance of infrastructure development, skills enhancement, research and innovation, and international partnerships to ensure that our mineral wealth becomes a catalyst for long-term prosperity,” said Gwede Mantashe, South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
Link to the full document HERE: CRITICAL MINERALS AND METALS STRATEGY SOUTH AFRICA 2025
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
