Africa must resist ‘slavery mentality’ to ignite growth in mining – Engr. Adeyemi

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Africa must resist ‘slavery mentality’ to ignite growth in mining – Engr. Adeyemi







President, Women in Mining, Nigeria (WIMIN) Engr. Janet Adeyemi  has called on African nations to reject the “slavery mentality” that continues to undermine the continent's growth, particularly in the mining sector.

 Speaking at the 3rd Annual Gold and Gem Conference Exhibition (GGCE) and the 2nd Africa Gold Jewellery Exhibition Conference (AGJEC) in Lagos, Adeyemi emphasized the urgent need for Africa to break free from colonial-era mindsets that still hamper progress.

Addressing industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, Adeyemi stated, “For centuries, we were made to believe that our resources, cultures, and ideas were inferior, only valuable when extracted, shaped, and defined by others. That mindset—what I call the ‘slavery mentality’—has held us back for too long.”

She argued that this mentality not only limits Africa’s economic potential but also erodes the confidence needed to harness the continent’s vast resources, particularly in the mining and gemstone industries. Adeyemi urged African countries to take ownership of their mineral wealth, adding that the success of Africa’s mining sector depends on Africans recognizing the value within their own borders.

Adeyemi highlighted the fusion of jewellery and fashion as an example of Africa’s untapped potential, where the continent can lead globally by integrating its rich cultural heritage with modern market demands. “The integration of fashion and jewellery is not just an industry trend, but a powerful symbol of African identity and craftsmanship. We need to believe in the value of what we produce and lead the way globally,” she noted.

She also pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical platform for Africa to unite, remove trade barriers, and develop stronger value chains in mining and other sectors. “The AfCFTA offers a historic opportunity to keep the wealth generated from our natural resources within the continent. But for this to work, we must first shed the belief that our success depends on external validation,” Adeyemi added.

Calling on African governments and private sector leaders to support local artisans, strengthen capacity-building efforts, and promote ethical sourcing, she stressed that Africa has the potential to become a global leader in the mining sector—if it can overcome the remnants of the colonial past.

“This is a moment for Africa to define its future, to turn its mineral resources into wealth that stays within the continent. But to do so, we must first break free from the mental chains of the past and believe in our own power and potential,” Adeyemi concluded

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