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Gwede Mantashe Rejects Trump’s Threats, Calls for Africa to Use its Mineral Wealth

Mineral Resources and Petroleum Minister Gwede Mantashe has firmly rejected the financial threats made by United States President Donald Trump, addressing delegates at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town.
Mantashe’s Bold Stance on Africa’s Mineral Wealth
Speaking at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Mantashe dismissed fears about the potential financial consequences of Trump’s threats, emphasizing that African nations, rich in minerals and natural resources, should not be held hostage by such geopolitical pressures.
“There is this ongoing threat that because of our passing the Expropriation Act, Trump may withhold funding to South Africa. My response is simple: Let’s mobilize Africa and withhold minerals from the U.S. if they refuse to provide us with support,” Mantashe said.
He highlighted that Africa is the world’s richest mining jurisdiction, with vast reserves of valuable minerals, including 90% of the world’s chromium. He argued that Africa should leverage its mineral wealth to its advantage, refusing to be intimidated by external pressures.
A Call for Unity and Self-Reliance
Mantashe urged African leaders to take pride in the continent’s mineral wealth and use it as a bargaining chip in global economic discussions. He stressed that Africa should not be a “beggar” on the world stage, but rather a continent that asserts its value by using its resources strategically.
“We cannot continue to be the poorest continent while holding 90% of the world’s chromium and vast reserves of other minerals. We must internalize this power and use it to compete globally,” he asserted.
The minister also reminded the audience that Africa’s wealth in minerals is a vital resource that should benefit the continent and not be exploited without fair compensation.
Trump’s Controversial Statements and South Africa’s Response
Mantashe’s remarks came in the wake of President Trump’s controversial statements about South Africa. In an interview on Fox News, Trump was asked if he planned to cut aid to African nations, to which he responded, “No. It’s only South Africa, terrible things are happening in South Africa, the leadership is doing some terrible things…”
Trump specifically cited South Africa’s land expropriation policies, claiming that the country was confiscating land and mistreating certain groups of people. He further stated on his Truth Social app, “I will be cutting off all future funding to South Africa until a full investigation of this situation has been completed!”
Africa’s Strategic Position on the World Stage
Mantashe’s bold comments at the Mining Indaba reflect the growing sentiment across Africa that the continent must shift its approach to international relations. With its vast mineral wealth, Africa has the potential to redefine its role in the global economy, and Mantashe believes it’s time for African nations to stand united and use their resources for the benefit of the people.
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