Tracing Africa’s minerals supply chains to Europe
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Tracing Africa’s minerals supply chains to Europe
WhyAfrica investigates mineral supply chains from Africa to Europe through Rome.
The importance of Africa’s resources
Africa holds significant reserves of cobalt, lithium, copper, graphite and rare earths. These minerals are essential in the energy transition and global technology markets. Demand is increasing and Europe is looking to secure long term access.
Rome as a strategic base
WhyAfrica’s expedition to Europe is based in Rome. Italy plays a role in connecting Africa with European markets through trade, logistics and investment. Rome provides a vantage point to assess how critical minerals move from mines in Africa to processing and use in Europe.
Links between Italy and Africa
Italy imports minerals and energy from Africa. Italian companies invest in African mining and infrastructure projects. The relationship extends to financing, technology transfer and diplomatic engagement. Tracing these flows highlights Italy’s position as a bridge between the two continents.
Supply Chains and future relations
Critical minerals supply chains will influence future Africa–Europe relations. Security of supply, transparency, and environmental standards will be key. Europe needs African minerals to drive its energy transition. Africa requires fair value, infrastructure and partnerships. These dynamics will determine long term stability and trust.
Learning from the colosseum
The colosseum in Rome stands as a reminder of past power structures and the importance of resources in shaping history. Today, resources again determine influence and cooperation. WhyAfrica’s work highlights that the future of Africa and Europe relations will depend on how mineral supply chains are managed.
In picture is the Colosseum in Rome when WhyAfrica visited Italy during important discussions between European leaders and African businesses especially in the mining, energy and infrastructure space. Image credit: Leon Louw for WhyAfrica
Tracing Africa’s minerals supply chains to Europe