Africa seeks to catalyse mining technologies on the continent through UNDP timbuktoo Initiative
New York, USA – 25th September, 2024
How Lusaka became a hub for Mining Technologies
At the UNDP timbuktoo event, Yousef Gorji took the stage to discuss Africa’s future in mining technologies with Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa Assistant Secretary General & Director for Africa UNDP, and the Minister of Science and Technology Zambia H.E. Mr. Felix Mutati in attendance. During the same week world leaders gathered in New York for the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) discussing increasing global threats and conflicts raging across Europe and the Middle East.
In partnership with the Government of Zambia, UNDP has created a hub aimed at developing early stage ventures that support mining technologies in Africa or are seeking to operate on the continent. This initiative comes at an important time when we are experiencing a surge in demand for refined metals in light of net zero targets and transition from a hydrocarbon based energy system.
Yousef emphasized the role metals play in our daily lives, adding innovation in mining is essential for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Mining is integral to every industry, from renewable energy to AI and high-tech.
During the session, Yousef discussed his recent work with Magmec, a venture he co-founded earlier this year alongside PhD chemist Dr. Mustafa Yildirim, which aims to develop new technologies that can extract minerals from brine, in a low energy, commercially viable way to produce metals.
MineTech is one of the ten nodes established by timbuktoo, part of its $1 billion initiative to support startups in various sectors.
“You can’t forget about Africa when you think of mining,” Yousef remarked. “Value should be harnessed in all stages of the supply chain so African economies can flourish just like the prosperity seen in some of the rich Gulf Arab states,” success of timbuktoo will require a collective effort between different mining stakeholders. “There is need for us to align with industry and better understand the issues they’re faced with so when we invest in entrepreneurs, we are solving the right problems and someone will pay for what you build.”
International mining companies are already taking an interest in Zambia. KoBold Metals, a Californian based start up backed by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates who are using AI to explore for new deposits. University of Stanford also has affiliations with University of Zambia for research scholarships in data science for geoscience.
As sector specific programs like timbuktoo gain momentum, and global mining players continue to enter Africa we only expect the eco-system for mining technologies become more established and a prime destination for entrepreneurs looking to innovate in the sector.
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About Moga
Moga is an industry niche-focused critical mineral company looking to pioneer innovative solutions in the mining sector and build resilient supply chains for underserved minerals. With a focus on integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, Moga aims to support the transformation in the mining industry and contribute to global economic development.
About Magmec
Magmec is developing ion exchange resins and membranes for critical mineral recovery from brine based sources to make metal that can be used as components and lightweight materials in electronics and all forms of the transport industry.
About UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, working to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilient nations. It partners with countries to provide expertise, resources, and innovative solutions for sustainable development, focusing on areas like governance, climate change, and crisis recovery.