Namaskar,

In this episode “Shadow Empires: The Global Contest for Africa’s Strategic Minerals”, we dive into the intensifying global contest for control over Africa’s critical minerals—resources like cobalt, lithium, rare earths, and gold that are foundational to the future of clean energy, defense technologies, and global manufacturing. The article unpacks how the United States, China, and Russia are waging a silent hybrid war across the continent through a blend of state-backed companies, private military contractors, intelligence operations, and shadow financing networks. From Chinese infrastructure deals in the DRC to Russian mercenary control over diamond mines in CAR, and the U.S.'s covert countermeasures via AFRICOM and CIA-backed mining interests, Africa is fast becoming the most strategic battlefield of the 21st century.

We also explore the lesser-discussed yet vital roles played by France—struggling to retain its post-colonial mineral influence—and India, which is emerging as a subtle but strategic player through soft power and mineral diplomacy. The article connects the dots between geopolitical ambition, elite patronage, terrorism financing, ESG double standards, and the future of global supply chains. At stake is not just Africa’s mineral sovereignty, but the balance of global power itself. Tune in to uncover how minerals beneath Africa’s soil are shaping the next era of world order.

Do read the article in detail over here

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Niti Shastra

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