Nouakchott, 9 September 2025
In a landmark moment for African mineral governance, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania has officially signed and ratified the Charter of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), becoming the 19th Founding Member State.
“Today we stand on the shores of history. Mauritania’s signature is not simply an addition to our numbers – it strengthens Africa’s collective voice, broadens our continental shield, and deepens our unity in purpose. This is not just Mauritania signing. It is Africa advancing. It is our children’s future being secured. It is our collective dignity being reclaimed.
– H.E Moses Micheal Engadu, AMSG Secretary-General
Why Mauritania Matters
Fresh from its Chairmanship of the African Union, Mauritania has proven itself a bridge-builder, uniting heritage with innovation and continuity with progress. Its mineral wealth – iron, gold, copper, and gas – are not just resources but strategic reserves of Africa’s future.
With this ratification, Mauritania secures its seat at the table of global mineral governance, ensuring that Africa is not a rule-taker, but a rule-shaper.
“By signing the AMSG Charter, Mauritania reaffirms its role as a continental leader. Our resources must not only fuel global industry but also uplift our people. We are proud to anchor this vision alongside our African brothers and sisters.”
– H.E. Thiam Tidjani, Minister of Mines and Industry, Mauritania
The AMSG Charter was signed by H.E. Thiam Tidjani, Minister of Mines and Industry of Mauritania, and witnessed by H.E. Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources of Sierra Leone, H.E. Madam Agatha Engadu, Spouse of the AMSG Secretary-General, Ms. Ney Lody, Special Assistant to the AMSG Secretary-General and Principal Interpreter, together with senior government officials of Mauritania and Sierra Leone.
Mauritania’s accession strengthens Africa’s position ahead of the Second AMSG High-Level Roundtable on Critical Minerals, to be held on 22 September 2025 during UNGA80 in New York. There, Africa will speak with one voice – stronger, sharper, and united.
