Africa must turn mineral wealth into jobs – Liberia’s Vice President

Liberia’s Vice President, Jeremiah Kpan Koung, has urged African countries to turn their mineral wealth into jobs, stronger industries and improved living conditions for their people.

Speaking at the Mining in Motion 2026 Summit on October 19, 2026, he said Africa must derive greater benefits from its natural resources by processing more minerals locally and linking mining to other sectors of the economy.

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He said the continent had exported raw and partially processed minerals for too long, allowing much of the employment and commercial value generated from the resources to accrue to other countries.

‘The question is how we change that wealth into productive industries, decent jobs, reliable infrastructure and better lives,’ he said.

The Vice President noted that growing demand for minerals used in energy systems, digital technology and manufacturing presented Africa with an opportunity to develop industries and create jobs.

He said countries must protect mining communities while investing in the infrastructure needed to support competitive businesses.

Outlining his priorities, he called for the development of African mineral value chains backed by reliable electricity, efficient transport systems, modern ports, skilled workers and access to markets.

He said growing demand for minerals could also drive investment in power and transport infrastructure.

However, he stressed that such investments should benefit households, local businesses and other productive sectors of the economy.

He further called for stronger links between mining, agriculture, manufacturing, skills development and technology, drawing on the framework provided by the African Mining Vision.

‘Our task is to translate that vision into implementable and measurable results,’ he said.

Africa’s Minerals Must Create Jobs, Not Just Wealth – Liberia’s Vice President



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