STAKEHOLDERS SEEK MORE INVESTMENT IN AFRICA’S GOLD,

Stakeholders in Africa’s gold and gemstone industry are calling for increased investment, skills development and innovation to unlock more value from the continent’s mineral resources.

The call comes ahead of the fifth edition of the Gold and Gemstones Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to hold in Lagos from November 24 to 28, 2026.

The conference will focus on the role of African women in driving investment, innovation and competitiveness across the gold and gemstone value chain industry.

Organisers said Africa continues to export significant quantities of raw minerals without enough local processing and value addition. They stressed the need for greater investment in mineral beneficiation, processing, jewellery manufacturing, technology and skills development.

President of Women in Mining Nigeria, Janet Adeyemi, said the fifth anniversary of the event represented an opportunity to create stronger platforms for investment and international collaboration within the industry.

She said greater participation by women and young professionals could help expand opportunities across Africa’s mineral value chain.

The organisers also highlighted the importance of connecting African producers with international markets while strengthening local expertise and technology.

They said the conference would provide a platform for all investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry professionals to explore opportunities for developing Africa’s gold and gemstone resources.

Stakeholders believe increased investment in processing and manufacturing could enable African countries to retain more value from their mineral wealth, create jobs and strengthen the continent’s position in the global precious metals and gemstones market.