Cobalt (Co, 27) is a chemical element found in combined form in the Earth’s crust and in meteoric iron alloys. Its value: critical minerals drive global supply security; Africa is a key source.
The UN and world powers are pressing for governance reform as demand for critical minerals rises. Leaders warn that without local processing and stronger rule of law, mining profits will bypass local communities and fuel conflict. New commitments aim to channel wealth into public services and jobs amid a global scramble for cobalt, lithium, nickel and rare earths.