China warns against scramble for Africa's minerals as Kenya's $62.4 billion Mrima Hill mineral deposits attracts U.S., Chinese and Australian investors.

Thursday, October 15, 2026 - Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged African nations to maintain control of their mineral resources and cautioned against letting the continent’s vast deposits become tools of geopolitical competition among foreign powers.

Speaking on Tuesday, October 13, Xi unveiled a four-point proposal aimed at strengthening China-Africa cooperation in the mining sector.

The framework emphasizes African ownership of natural resources, mutually beneficial partnerships, high-quality development, and a fair investment environment.

According to Chinese state media, Xi stressed that Africa’s mineral wealth should serve the interests of its people rather than become a battleground for global rivalries.

“Africa’s resources should not become tools of geopolitical struggle,” Xi said, adding that China was willing to work with African countries to create a stable and predictable environment for mining investment and cooperation.

Xi’s remarks come at a time when Kenya is attracting significant international interest due to its critical mineral deposits, particularly at Mrima Hill in Kwale County.

Firms from the United States, China and Australia are among those competing for rights to develop the area, which contains valuable minerals including niobium and rare earth elements.

The statement also comes amid growing efforts by the United States and its allies to diversify critical mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates the processing of several minerals used in electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing, electronics and defence technologies.

Kenya has been exploring partnerships with Washington to develop local mineral processing facilities, a move the government says will promote value addition, create jobs, facilitate technology transfer and strengthen the country’s industrial sector.

Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has previously confirmed that discussions with U.S. officials involve plans to expand investment in Kenya’s critical minerals industry while ensuring the country derives greater value from its natural resources.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.