A concise bio of the element and its current news footprint.
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.
The Kenyan government has directed Tata Chemicals Magadi to leave the Lake Magadi area, arguing the century-old operation has not delivered enough local industrial development or jobs. Officials plan to replace it with investors who will establish local factories, including a glass plant in Kajiado and a chemical processing facility. The move is drawing mixed reactions as talks continue.