Africa’s Rare Earth Momentum Builds as Global Demand Set to Triple by 2035

As global demand for rare earth minerals accelerates, as projected to rise from 91,000 tons in 2024 to 150,000 tons by 2035, Africa is positioning itself at the heart of a strategic minerals race that could reshape both its economies and its geopolitical standing.

Forecast to account for at least 9% of global output by 2029, the continent’s rare earth sector is moving from geological promise to early-stage production. Behind the statistics lies an expansive story of industrial ambition, job creation and governments seeking greater leverage in a supply chain long dominated by a handful of producers. From potential resource to community impact.

Across southern and eastern Africa, exploration rigs are drilling not only for minerals, but for economic transformation. In Angola, UK-listed Pensana is preparing a 7,000-meter infill drilling campaign at the Longonjo project, expected to begin production in 2027. At full scale, the mine could supply up to 5% of global magnetic rare earths materials, essential for electric vehicles and wind turbines, while creating employment opportunities in mining, logistics and downstream processing. To most of the host communities, the stakes are tangible. Apart from royalties and export revenues, local leaders are pressing for training programmes, infrastructure upgrades and small-business participation in supply chains. In countries such as Botswana and Namibia, where new drilling campaigns are planned, governments are negotiating exploration licenses with stronger local content provisions, aiming to avoid the extractive ‘enclave’ model that has historically limited broader development gains.