Role of governments in strengthening (sub) regional cooperation in the development and utilization of mineral resources

Abstract

It is a well known fact that Africa is richly endowed with mineral resources. The contribution of mineral resources to its socio-economic development has not, however, been consistent with its large potential. Governments have a major role to play in changing this scenario. As the promulgators of policy, Governments directly determine the fate of the minerals industry. Over the last three decades, Governments' role in mineral resources development has undergone some major changes. The post independence era saw most Governments take over the tasks of developing mineral resources. This was a responsibility for which they were not best suited due to a number of constraints, primarily related to management in capacities.