SFA (Oxford) is a globally recognised authority in market intelligence and advisory services for strategic metals and minerals, while CMAG is dedicated to giving Africa and its critical minerals stakeholders a seat at the table in supply chain discussions and policy shaping.

Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO, CMAG, comments, “Effective development of Africa’s critical minerals sector requires more than access to resources—it demands data-driven decisions and a deep understanding of the political and policy dynamics across the continent. By combining rigorous market intelligence with local insight, we can help shape strategies that deliver sustainable economic growth, resilient supply chains, and tangible benefits for communities where these minerals are sourced.”

Henk de Hoop, CEO, SFA (Oxford), comments, “SFA (Oxford) has a long track record of delivering trusted analysis and strategic advice across Africa’s mining and minerals landscape. By combining our deep analytical expertise with CMAG’s invaluable local insights, we can help stakeholders unlock the full potential of the continent’s critical minerals. This partnership will enable data-driven strategies that foster resilient value chains, sustainable development, and long-term benefits for African economies and communities.”

This partnership brings together complementary expertise and networks, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting sustainable and resilient critical minerals development across Africa. Both organisations look forward to working together to drive impact, innovation, and growth in the sector.

This collaboration will spotlight the continent’s pivotal role in global critical mineral supply chains through in-depth coverage, expert commentary, and thought leadership across Africa Briefing’s digital channels, bi-monthly magazine, and podcast series.

“This partnership is a natural fit for Africa Briefing,” said Publisher Jonathan Offei-Ansah. “CMAG’s advocacy resonates with our editorial mission to highlight Africa’s leadership in shaping its own future. Together, we will amplify informed perspectives on how critical minerals can drive inclusive development and industrial sovereignty.”

CMAG CEO Veronica Bolton Smith welcomed the alliance:

“We are thrilled to partner with Africa Briefing Media, a pivotal platform that will amplify our mission to harness Africa’s mineral wealth for sustainable growth. This milestone marks a new chapter in showcasing Africa’s vast potential to a global audience.”

As global demand for lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earths accelerates, this partnership underscores Africa’s growing importance in building resilient, equitable, and future-facing mineral economies.

The inaugural members of the Advisory Board include:

Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global: With over a decade of experience in market analysis and strategic advisory, Ms. Tesfay brings a wealth of knowledge in economic forecasting and resource management. She will play a pivotal role in shaping CMAG’s data-driven initiatives and market intelligence efforts.

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman, APO Group: A seasoned communications and public relations expert, Mr. Pompigne-Mognard has extensive experience in enhancing stakeholder engagement and promoting investment opportunities in Africa. His expertise will be invaluable in amplifying CMAG’s presence and advocacy efforts on critical minerals.

Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC: Mr Morgan’s extensive background in policy development and stakeholder relations will provide CMAG with crucial insights into navigating regulatory landscapes and fostering partnerships with governmental entities.

“We are excited to welcome distinguished professionals to our Advisory Board,” said Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO of the Critical Minerals Africa Group. “Their diverse expertise and commitment to sustainable practices will be instrumental in guiding initiatives aimed at unlocking Africa’s vast mineral potential while ensuring environmental stewardship and social responsibility.”

The establishment of the Advisory Board underscores CMAG’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for critical minerals, which are essential for technologies such as electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and advanced manufacturing.

Our abundant natural resources, particularly in critical minerals, are vital to the global transition to clean energy
Guinea’s critical minerals sector is poised for exponential growth, driven by global demand for electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, and advanced electronics. The country’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, and government support position it as a pivotal hub for Africa’s industrialization.

One of the standout projects fuelling this momentum is the Simandou iron ore and associated mineral deposits. The Simandou Range is renowned for its vast reserves of high-grade iron ore, which is essential for steel production worldwide. Its development is expected to significantly boost Guinea’s economy and position the country as a key supplier in global markets.

“This partnership with Critical Minerals Africa Group is a testament to Guinea’s commitment to becoming an industrial powerhouse. Our abundant natural resources, particularly in critical minerals, are vital to the global transition to clean energy. By fostering strategic investments and responsible mining practices, we are unlocking the transformative potential of Guinea’s mineral wealth,” Ismaël Diakite, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Guinea Chamber of Mines.

“Guinea is at the forefront of Africa’s mining revolution. Guinea’s rich deposits of critical minerals, coupled with the country’s strategic location and supportive policies, make it an ideal hub for industrial development on the continent. This alliance will accelerate investments, create jobs, and support sustainable growth,” stated Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO of The Critical Minerals Africa Group.

As Africa’s fastest-growing economy, Guinea offers an attractive landscape for investors seeking to tap into the continent’s mineral wealth. The country’s government has prioritized infrastructure development, policy reforms, and regional cooperation, making Guinea a magnet for foreign direct investment.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

As global demand for critical minerals accelerates and countries tighten export policies to secure supply chains, Africa’s role as a key player in the energy transition has never been more significant. The webinar, which focused on “navigating Geopolitics and Market Shifts in Africa’s Critical Minerals Sector,” drew participants from across the mining, policy, and investment sectors.

Chaired by CMAG’s head of markets and research Dr. Theo Acheampong, the webinar included expert insights from Christopher Vandome, Senior Research Fellow, Africa Programme, Chatham House, Dinah McLeod, Director General, Cobalt Institute, and John R. Sloan, Economist, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

The speakers shared expert insights on emerging policy and market trends, with a focus on cobalt supply chains in the DRC, Africa’s positioning in a polarised global economy, and how tariff regimes and export bans are shaping investment flows into African mining projects.

“The strategic importance of Africa’s mineral resources is only growing,” said Dr. Acheampong. “This webinar highlighted the urgency for African nations to build resilient, value-added critical minerals industries that can withstand external shocks. Events like this are a crucial part of CMAG achieving its mission to put Africa at the heart of international discussions surrounding critical minerals and associated supply chains.”

Reflecting on the webinar’s key takeaways, John R. Sloan said, “African countries are better equipped for the ‘critical’ minerals boom than past commodity super-cycles, with frameworks such as the Africa Mining Vision and Africa’s Green Minerals Strategy to guide policies for value-addition and industrialisation.”

The session underscored the importance of proactive policymaking, regional collaboration, and transparent governance to ensure Africa captures long-term value from its mineral wealth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

For media inquiries, please contact:
Harry Clynch
Head of Communications
hclynch@cmagafrica.com
+447808118155

About the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG):
The Critical Minerals Africa Group is an advocacy group that seeks to foster deeper relationships between Africa and global markets and put Africa at the heart of international discussions surrounding critical minerals and associated supply chains. CMAG aims to enable the creation of resilient and diversified critical minerals supply chains that benefit the communities in which they are extracted, as well as to accelerate economic development through the capture of value-adding activities.

The inaugural members of the Advisory Board include:

Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global: With over a decade of experience in market analysis and strategic advisory, Ms. Tesfay brings a wealth of knowledge in economic forecasting and resource management. She will play a pivotal role in shaping CMAG’s data-driven initiatives and market intelligence efforts.

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman, APO Group: A seasoned communications and public relations expert, Mr. Pompigne-Mognard has extensive experience in enhancing stakeholder engagement and promoting investment opportunities in Africa. His expertise will be invaluable in amplifying CMAG’s presence and advocacy efforts on critical minerals.

Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC: Mr Morgan’s extensive background in policy development and stakeholder relations will provide CMAG with crucial insights into navigating regulatory landscapes and fostering partnerships with governmental entities.

“Shaping positive perceptions of Africa’s potential and opportunities for growth and innovation amongst global stakeholders and audiences is critical”

“We are excited to welcome distinguished professionals to our Advisory Board,” said Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO of the Critical Minerals Africa Group. “Their diverse expertise and commitment to sustainable practices will be instrumental in guiding initiatives aimed at unlocking Africa’s vast mineral potential while ensuring environmental stewardship and social responsibility.”

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group commented on his appointment: “Shaping positive perceptions of Africa’s potential and opportunities for growth and innovation amongst global stakeholders and audiences is critical. Following APO Group’s recently announced strategic partnership with CMAG to raise the global prominence of the continent’s critical minerals sector, being appointed to the Advisory Board is an immense honour. I look forward to working with fellow Advisory Board members to support CMAG in safeguarding Africa’s critical minerals for future generations.”

The establishment of the Advisory Board underscores CMAG’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for critical minerals, which are essential for technologies such as electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and advanced manufacturing.

For more information about the Critical Minerals Group and its Advisory Board, please visit www.CMAGAfrica.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

During her visit, Bolton Smith will participate in a key conference on the energy transition, led by the Italian multinational energy company ENI, where she will contribute insights into how critical minerals can support sustainable energy solutions across Africa and beyond.

In addition to this, Bolton Smith will meet with prominent Kenyan government officials in Nairobi, including H.E. Hassan Ali Joho, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. Discussions will centre on Kenya’s strategic focus on the development of critical minerals and its ambitious plans for the blue economy.

Bolton Smith will also engage with H.E. Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry to explore Kenya’s investment landscape, to assess Kenya’s initiatives aimed at attracting foreign direct investment, as well as the country’s long-term economic vision as outlined in Vision 2050.

“Kenya is taking significant steps to position itself as a key player in the global critical minerals sector and to drive sustainable economic growth through strategic investments in crucial industries such as this,” said Veronica Bolton Smith, CEO of the Critical Minerals Africa Group. “I look forward to engaging with government leaders, industry stakeholders, and investors to explore how CMAG can help unlock the investment that is needed to support Kenya’s development goals and the broader energy transition in Kenya and across Africa.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

For media inquiries, please contact:
Harry Clynch
Head of Communications
hclynch@cmagafrica.com
+447808118155

About the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG):
The Critical Minerals Africa Group is an advocacy group that seeks to foster deeper relationships between Africa and global markets and put Africa at the heart of international discussions surrounding critical minerals and associated supply chains. CMAG aims to enable the creation of resilient and diversified critical minerals supply chains that benefit the communities in which they are extracted, as well as to accelerate economic development through the capture of value-adding activities.

Chaired by CMAG’s Chief Strategy Officer Olimpia Pilch, the event focused on catalysing investment in Africa’s critical minerals sector. During the panel discussion, Nyoko Isabela, Head of Mining Finance at Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, offered insights into how different stakeholders with varying interests and concerns view risk when approaching mining projects and how this can affect how projects are financed.

“The broad strokes in scanning for risk that we perform as banks entail assessing technical soundness, financial and economic merits, compliance integrity, and market review. But even these are hardly enough to close the huge chasm between investor expectations that are strongly pitted in short-termism reflective of a world in flux, and the funding requirements that are needed for longer time-frames fraught with vacillating risk dynamics,” she said.

“What is needed in my view is a deliberate effort to realign expectations through clear-cut, consistent policies that encourage long-term investment.”

Veronica Bolton Smith, CMAG’s CEO, says “there is an enormous amount of potential for Africa to leverage its critical minerals resources for both domestic industrialisation and broader economic transformation, but to do that, it needs adequate amounts of financing. Most mining projects are worth billions of dollars – finding the cash to finance such large projects is never going to be easy, particularly in a region which also has to deal with additional regulatory and geopolitical risks.”

“CMAG’s conversations with policymakers and stakeholders at the Mining Indaba are an important part of our mission in coordinating industry expectations and interests and helping to formulate sound, long-term policy frameworks which can unlock the capital Africa needs to seize the full potential of its critical minerals.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

About The Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG):
The Critical Minerals Africa Group is an advocacy group that seeks to foster deeper relationships between Africa and global markets and put Africa at the heart of international discussions surrounding critical minerals and associated supply chains. CMAG aims to enable the creation of resilient and diversified critical minerals supply chains that benefit the communities in which they are extracted, as well as to accelerate economic development through the capture of value-adding activities.

The Future Minerals Forum brings together governments, international organisations, the private sector, and other stakeholders shaping the global critical minerals industry. The Forum will be attended by over 14,000 participants from 178 countries united in the ambition to drive innovation and collaboration towards a sustainable future.

CMAG will be represented at the Future Minerals Forum by its CEO, Veronica Bolton Smith, who will be chairing a panel on Thursday 16^th January on the topic of “making high-risk, minerals-rich jurisdictions investable by growing supply chain transparency and certification.”

With the recent news of the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo taking Apple to court over the alleged use of blood minerals, this timely conversation will explore how governments, businesses, and consumers can help improve the traceability of critical minerals. Strengthening traceability in global supply chains is crucial in unlocking the full potential of Africa’s critical minerals.

CMAG was established because, despite Africa’s central role in the global critical minerals industry, African policymakers, business leaders, and citizens struggle to influence vital discussions around policy and supply chains. Global businesses keen to seize the opportunities presented by Africa’s critical minerals also face high barriers to entry owing to a lack of relationships on the continent and limited local knowledge.

CMAG’s mission is to foster deeper relationships between Africa and global markets and thereby enable the creation of resilient and diversified critical minerals supply chains that benefit the communities in which they are extracted, as well as to accelerate economic development through the capture of value-adding activities.

CMAG’s CEO, Veronica Bolton Smith, says, “I am looking forward to a productive trip to Riyadh for the Future Minerals Forum. CMAG’s mission is to ensure that African perspectives are put at the heart of vital discussions around critical minerals – and that is exactly what we will be doing at the Future Minerals Forum.”

“CMAG will be representing the interests of our members while on the ground in Riyadh, where we look forward to engaging with the government officials and business leaders who are also attending the Forum. We aim to play a leading role in fostering deeper, mutually beneficial relationships between key critical minerals stakeholders in the Gulf, Africa, and globally.”

About The Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG)

The Critical Minerals Africa Group is an advocacy group that seeks to foster deeper relationships between Africa and global markets and put Africa at the heart of international discussions surrounding critical minerals and associated supply chains. CMAG aims to enable the creation of resilient and diversified critical minerals supply chains that benefit the communities in which they are extracted, as well as to accelerate economic development through the capture of value-adding activities.