Africa’s resource wealth has long been central to the global economy. Yet the continent continues to confront a fundamental development question: why does being rich in resources not necessarily translate into industrial power, economic diversification or greater prosperity for its people? From critical minerals essential to the energy transition and advanced technologies to agricultural commodities such as shea, the challenge is not simply what Africa produces, but where value is created, who controls the supply chains and who ultimately benefits. Today, we examine the economics of resource sovereignty, the realities of industrialisation, the role of capital and financial markets, and whether greater regional cooperation can strengthen Africa’s position in the global economy. The central question is this: how can Africa move from supplying the world’s raw materials to shaping the industries, markets and economic opportunities those resources make possible? To answer some of these questions, we spoke to Development Economist, Phelisa Nkomo