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# COMESA SECRETARIAT POSITION PAPER TO THE COUNCIL FOR SUPPORT TO MINING ACTIVITIES UNDER THE INDUSTRY UNIT
Background
The COMESA region is one of the world's richest in mineral resources, commanding approximately 16% of global uranium, 18% of gold, 26% of bauxite, 53% of diamonds, 53% of cobalt, 75% of platinum, and a substantial share of other strategic minerals. Despite this, the region remains predominantly an exporter of raw minerals, foregoing the immense value and job creation potential associated with processing and refining. It is time for COMESA to break from the "raw export" legacy and drive a new era of value addition across mineral value chains.
COMESA is now at a crossroads. In direct response to the 23rd COMESA Head of States Summit in Bujumbura (2024), the Authority has mandated Member States and the private sector to join forces in building the capacity of local mining companies and SMEs, modernizing value addition and mineral processing, and establishing incentives for firms investing in local production facilities. The Authority further called for the adoption of responsible mining practices, sustainable value chains, and the transition towards a circular economy ensuring our mineral wealth is developed inclusively and for transformative impact. These directives have shaped the new roadmap developed by the Secretariat, which anchors "mineral-based development" as a central pillar of the upcoming COMESA Medium Term Strategic Plan (MTSP 2026-2030) under "Industrialisation, Investment Promotion, and Private Sector Development".
Rationale: Urgency and Opportunity
Mining is not only a cornerstone of COMESA's Industrial Policy (2015–2030), but also one of the three strategic sectors selected under the Accelerated Industrial Development for Africa (AIDA) at the African Union Commission recognized for its unmatched multiplier effects and role in diversifying economies and advancing regional integration.
COMESA must pivot from a "source of raw materials" to a regional hub for mineral-based sustainable development. This requires a mining strategy that harnesses the strengths of both Large-scale Mining (LM) and a formalized, high-impact Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) sector, ensuring benefits spread widely while upholding environmental stewardship and social inclusion.
Across Africa, competition is accelerating as regional blocs take concrete action to advance their mining sectors. SADC has implemented formal value chain development along with regional standards for mining governance, ECOWAS is introducing harmonized policies to regulate and grow its sector, and EAC is strengthening frameworks for traceability and responsible mineral sourcing. In light of these rapid developments, COMESA must act now and assert decisive leadership to avoid falling behind and to fully participate in Africa's ongoing mining renaissance.
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# Proposed Strategic Activities for FY 2026