Africa: The US-China Rivalry Is Gradually Shaping Pan-African Mining Dynamics

What the report says

Africa is increasingly being shaped by competition among major powers for access to critical minerals, according to an Aug. 13, 2026 AllAfrica item distributed from InfoWire. The report says the energy transition has lifted demand for minerals used in new technologies, making the continent a major target for mining capital. It highlights the United States and China as especially active investors, with Chinese firms still dominant in African mine operations and Washington seeking a larger role in response.

The article says this rivalry has raised concerns in some African countries about geopolitical pressure and uneven benefits. It cites allegations from Zambia that US health partnership talks were linked to access to critical minerals, while Chinese companies have faced criticism over labor practices and use of imported workers. In response, several governments are pursuing partnerships with other countries they see as offering finance, technology and broader industrial support.

Turkey and the Gulf states are presented as rising players. The report says Turkey signed cooperation deals with Nigeria and Somalia in May to support mining development, while Emirati companies have expanded in places including Mauritania, Ghana, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These deals include mine investments, rail links, power generation and technical assistance.

The piece argues that such diversified partnerships could help African states secure better terms and build more of the mining value chain at home. It also notes uncertainty over whether Middle East tensions could slow investment, even as countries such as the UAE continue to describe Africa as a strategic priority.