Africa’s Ocean Resources in the Crosshairs of $16T Deep-Sea Mining Rush Nairobi, Kenya — The deep ocean, often termed the planet’s “final frontier,” is emerging as a new battlefield in the global race for critical minerals. With estimated worth up to $16 trillion, the seabed’s mineral deposits are attracting intense interest from major powers like the United States and China, each seeking to bolster their strategic resource supplies. Africa, with its extensive coastline and marine resources, finds itself at the epicenter of this high-stakes competition.
The allure of seabed resources is undeniable, particularly as they include polymetallic nodules, polymetallic sulphides, and ferromanganese crusts, which are rich in minerals like manganese, nickel, copper, cobalt, and rare earth elements. These are vital for clean energy supply chains, advanced technologies, and defense capabilities.
The U. S. Has signaled its intent to accelerate deep-sea mining, with President Donald Trump signing an executive order in April 2025 to prioritize access to seabed minerals as a national security issue.
This move, however, has raised concerns about international rules, as the U. S. Has not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which governs activities in international waters.
China, already a dominant player in the processing of several key minerals, is also expanding its presence in deep — sea exploration.
The country holds five of the 31 exploration contracts issued by the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and is investing heavily in marine research capabilities. Africans are raising alarms over the potential environmental impact of this mining rush. Six African countries, including Mauritius and Kenya, have joined calls for a pause or moratorium on deep-sea mining, emphasizing the need for scientific evidence and a precautionary approach.
The debate over deep — sea mining is not just environmental or economic; it is also a maritime security challenge.
As the world’s two largest economies vie for these resources, Africa must navigate this new frontier carefully, balancing economic development with environmental protection and ensuring equitable benefits for its people.
The High Seas Treaty, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in June 2023, aims to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and is seen as a crucial step in managing the environmental impact of deep-sea mining.
As the United States and China continue their pursuit of the ocean floor’s treasures, the future of Africa’s marine resources hangs in the balance.
The next few years will determine whether the continent can harness the potential of deep — sea mining for sustainable development and the benefit of its citizens.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Olamilekan Okebiorun
