Africa is a resource for minerals and AI — not just as a consumer: Ronald Lamola to G20 nations

South Africa's International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola outlined key economic challenges the country intends to tackle at the G20 summit in Johannesburg, including the export of raw minerals that drains jobs and weakens local industries. He criticized low intra-African trade at 16% versus a targeted 30%, the Southern African Development Community's 21% intra-regional trade short of 50%, and revenue imbalances for African creators on global digital platforms. Lamola positioned Africa as a vital source of minerals and AI, urging stronger regional integration and fairer partnerships with the global north. These priorities align with South Africa's G20 presidency focus on critical minerals for inclusive growth, debt sustainability, and a just energy transition.