Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and founder of African Rainbow Minerals, delivered a keynote address at the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town. In his speech, he warned of significant global instability and economic risks, urging African nations to unite and leverage their mineral resources for greater benefit.
Motsepe emphasized that the continent must not be a passive observer in global affairs but should assert its position, particularly in the energy transition. He highlighted the critical role of African minerals like copper, cobalt, and lithium, which are essential for renewable technologies.
The mining magnate called for increased investment in local beneficiation and manufacturing to create jobs and retain more value within African economies. He also stressed the importance of ethical and sustainable mining practices to ensure long-term development.
His warnings come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and fluctuating commodity markets, which pose challenges to Africa's economic growth. The speech reinforced his longstanding advocacy for African self-reliance and strategic partnerships in the global mining sector.
