The African Union (AU)has been urging all member states to ratify the African Minerals Development Center’s (AMDC) statutes.
In a statement in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital Thursday, officials of AU pointed out the critical role of these statutes in developing the continent’s mineral industry.
Chiza Charles Chiumya, the AUC’s acting director for industry, minerals, entrepreneurship and tourism, said in a statement issued in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, that the statutes are essential tools for enhancing policymaking and directing focus on the opportunities in the sector.
“These tools are going to enhance policymaking as well as help bring in the required focus, especially from the private sector, which will now see where the continent has opportunities,” Chiumya said.
Only four African countries, namely Guinea, Mali, Zambia and Nigeria, have so far ratified the statutes.
A minimum of 15 ratifications are required to put the statutes in force and fully operationalize the center.
Chiumya asked member states that had not ratified the statutes to do so promptly so as to consolidate efforts toward achieving sustainable mineral development across Africa.
The AMDC, established as a specialized agency of the African Union, is tasked with coordinating the implementation and domestication of the Africa Mining Vision (AMV).
By ratifying the necessary laws, Chiumya said member states will demonstrate their commitment to advancing mineral development, promoting sustainable practices and fostering economic growth across the continent.
With support from AU member states, the AMDC can fulfill its mandate and contribute significantly to Africa’s socio-economic development, Chiumya said.