The Hidden Price of Progress: The True Cost of Transition Minerals in Africa

We are excited to announce the release of Surge Africa’s latest research analysis, ‘The Cost of Sustainability: Resources Conflict and Transition Mineral Mining’ As the global energy

transition accelerates, the demand for transition minerals like cobalt, lithium, and rare earth

elements is soaring. But what is the true price Africa pays for this push towards sustainability?

Our report delves deep into the widespread human rights abuses, violent conflict, environmental

degradation, and economic injustices tied to the extraction of these critical minerals across the

continent. Are we truly building a sustainable future if its foundation is built on exploitation and

conflict?

Research Analysis

Africa is at the center of the global energy transition, but for its mineral-rich countries, seeking

transition minerals often involves significant social, environmental, and economic costs. Our

analysis, The Cost of Sustainability: Resources Conflict and Transition Mineral Mining,

highlights a troubling scene marked by widespread human rights violations, including forced

labor, child labor, sexual violence, and displacement, along with serious environmental damage

like deforestation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Economically, the continent continues to struggle with the lasting effects of colonial and neocolonial exploitation. This is seen in illegal financial flows, unfair sharing of benefits, and external control over key mineral resources, which together hinder local development. Tackling these complex issues is essential for a fair and just transition.

The report stresses the importance of a way forward that involves strengthening regulations,

increasing transparency, ensuring fair profit sharing, and supporting community-led resource

management. By implementing these strategies, Africa can move toward a more inclusive,

resilient, and genuinely sustainable energy future where local communities directly benefit from

their natural resources.