
SADC urged to halt raw mineral exports for regional industrialization
Elias Magosi, Secretary of the Southern African Development Community SADC, called for an end to raw mineral exports, advocating instead for beneficiation, value addition, manufacturing, and industrialization to foster job creation and wealth within the region. Speaking at the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in Durban, South Africa, Magosi highlighted the region's abundance of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and platinum group metals, which are vital for future industries. He emphasized the need for SADC to transition from a raw material exporter to a globally competitive hub for value-added production, innovation, and industrialization. Magosi stressed that industrialization is crucial for economic diversification, job creation, poverty reduction, and improved living standards, requiring robust infrastructure including sustainable energy, transport networks, and digital connectivity. He urged SADC member states to enhance regional cooperation, emphasizing that collective action in trade, investment, and development is essential for building a stronger and more prosperous SADC, which comprises approximately 382 million people and a combined GDP exceeding US$847 billion.



