Confluence of Geopolitics, Energy, and Trade Driving Change

By Jonathan Veeran, Meluleki Nzimande & Tobia Serongoane, from Webber Wentzel

The African mining sector is at an exciting juncture in 2025. Three macro trends are converging simultaneously within the industry, creating opportunities for mining operators, African governments, and communities alike.

These trends include the West’s growing interest in Africa’s mining resources—aimed at matching the strides made by Eastern competitors led by China—the just energy transition, and the ever-growing influence of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).