What Carlos Lopes said at the start of ADF VIII

Abstract

Africa has a long way to go in order to harness the full potential of its natural resources. It is obvious that we are not there yet. We are gearing up to cope with increasing global demand for natural resources, at a time of global concern about environmental sustainability and climate change, it is important to first gain a clearer picture of what is at stake. Africa accounts for three-quarters of the world’s platinum supply, and half of its diamonds and chromium. It has up to one-fifth of gold and uranium supplies and it is increasingly home to oil and gas production with over thirty countries now in this category. Yet, with minor exceptions, Africa does not consume or add significant value to these and other mineral products which it has in abundance. This addresses was given by Dr. Carlos Lopes, the UN Under-Secretary and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) During the official opening of the Forum under the theme: “Governing and Harnessing Natural Resources for Africa’s Development”.