Africa’s green industrialisation drive is gathering momentum in 2026 as new value chains, renewable energy investments and critical minerals strategies redefine the continent’s economic outlook, according to a report by Furtherafrica.

The continent is witnessing a marked shift from raw-material dependence towards higher-value production. Investment in solar, wind and green hydrogen now underpins emerging manufacturing sectors tied to critical minerals.

Recent assessments by the World Bank and African Development Bank indicate growing capital flows into renewable energy corridors and processing facilities for cobalt, lithium, manganese and rare-earth elements. This development strengthens regional efforts to position African economies at the heart of global supply chains for low-carbon technologies.

Nations endowed with abundant solar and wind resources are attracting early hydrogen investment, whilst others concentrate on cleaner mineral beneficiation. This diversification broadens the industrial base and reduces dependence on traditional export structures, enhancing resilience as global demand for green products expands.

Green hydrogen anchors an expanding portfolio of long-term projects, particularly in Namibia, Morocco and Mauritania. These initiatives advance Africa’s ambition to supply future global energy markets whilst stimulating domestic industry.

Integrated hydrogen zones link power generation with downstream applications, including fertiliser production, steel manufacturing and transport fuels, creating broader economic linkages. European and Gulf investors are scaling up these ventures, with African partners seeking technology transfer and local content guarantees.

Critical minerals policy is gaining equal momentum. Regional hubs are pursuing coordinated strategies on mineral processing to capture greater value before export. Support from institutions such as the IMF is helping governments strengthen regulatory clarity and investment frameworks. As supply chains diversify, the continent’s share of battery precursor production could increase, particularly in southern and eastern Africa.

The African Continental Free Trade Area is reinforcing this transformation by facilitating the cross-border movement of inputs and finished products. Duty reductions, improved customs procedures and harmonised standards are integrating industrial corridors that link mineral-rich regions with coastal energy hubs.

These networks support low-emission transport, expanded logistics capacity and cluster development around special economic zones. Partnerships with Asian economies are deepening supply-chain integration as investors seek reliable access to both minerals and renewable energy. Gulf sovereign funds are broadening financing options and encouraging long-term commitments to African clean-industry platforms.

Clearer industrial policy and improved regulatory governance remain critical for the 2026 trajectory.

Governments are refining frameworks for power procurement, licensing and local content requirements, often with the support of the African Union. These reforms are creating more predictable conditions that attract additional capital into infrastructure, research and greener manufacturing.
T
he convergence of renewable energy, mineral beneficiation and regional integration suggests Africa’s green industrialisation drive will prove central to its medium-term economic transformation. Whilst the next phase demands consistent execution and coordination, momentum continues to build as global markets seek cleaner, more diversified supply chains.