CSIS Forum on U.S.-Africa Minerals Diplomacy Targets Supply Chain Security
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is convening a dedicated forum examining the future of U.S.-Africa minerals diplomacy. The initiative evaluates how Washington can leverage international partnerships to secure critical mineral reserves, production capabilities, and exploration investments.
The Bottom Line
- Strategic Pivot: The CSIS forum addresses the future of U.S.-Africa minerals diplomacy.
- Bilateral Engagement: Discussions center on how the United States can more effectively deploy its tools to compete.
- Market Integration: Working together globally yields a competitive edge by drawing upon foreign exploration investments, production capacities, and mineral reserves.
Mapping the Global Minerals Landscape
The upcoming forum builds upon the ongoing Mapping Minerals Diplomacy explainer series hosted by the CSIS Critical Minerals Security Program. Directed by Dr. Gracelin Baskaran, who heads the program, this initiative analyzes how various nations develop their minerals diplomacy approaches and how America can better utilize its own resources to compete.
As the global landscape for critical minerals evolves, so too must U.S. partnerships. Tapping into the exploration funding, manufacturing outputs, and deposits of foreign countries gives international alliances a strategic advantage.
Institutional Voices and Global Stakeholders
The CSIS framework relies on engagement with government officials and industry leaders. Past sessions featured contributors offering perspectives on resource governance and market access. Among them, the Honorable Dr. Kevin Rudd, former Australian Prime Minister and Ambassador of Australia to the U.S., provided insights. African mining governance has likewise been featured through contributions from figures such as the Honorable Bouna Sylla, Minister of Mines and Geology in Guinea.
On the corporate side, industry leaders including Bob Wilt, CEO of Maaden, and Brian Menell, CEO of TechMet, have participated in the series.
| Contributor | Affiliation / Role | Key Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Gracelin Baskaran | Director, CSIS Critical Minerals Security Program | Minerals diplomacy frameworks and U.S. engagement |
| The Hon. Dr. Kevin Rudd | Ambassador of Australia to the U.S. | Allied resource strategies and multilateral alignment |
| The Hon. Bouna Sylla | Minister of Mines and Geology, Guinea | African resource potential and governance |
| Brian Menell | CEO, TechMet | Critical mineral investments and processing supply chains |
Bridging Diplomatic Policy and Private Capital
Forums hosted by research institutions like CSIS serve as mechanisms to explore national strategies, mineral potential, and the challenges ahead for deeper U.S. engagement.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.