Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on African nations to stop exporting raw materials without processing them, urging governments across the continent to prioritize local manufacturing and value addition to drive industrialisation, create jobs and strengthen their economies.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged African leaders to take greater control of the continent’s natural resources by ending the long-standing practice of exporting raw materials while importing finished products.
Speaking during a visit to the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone in Cotonou, Benin Republic, Shettima said Africa must embrace local processing and manufacturing if it hopes to achieve sustainable economic growth and compete effectively in global trade.
‘Africa Must Add Value at Home’
According to the Vice President, Africa possesses abundant natural resources but continues to earn only a fraction of their true value because many raw materials are exported before they are processed.
He said the continent should invest in industries capable of transforming agricultural produce and mineral resources into finished goods, thereby creating jobs, boosting exports and increasing national revenues.
Benin’s Industrial Zone Praised
Shettima commended the Republic of Benin for developing the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone, describing it as a model for African countries seeking to industrialise through value addition.
He noted that the integrated cotton, textile and agro-processing facilities demonstrate how agriculture can become a major driver of industrial development rather than merely supplying raw materials to foreign factories.
Push for Economic Transformation
The Vice President stressed that Africa can no longer afford to remain a supplier of raw materials while importing finished products manufactured from its own resources.
He urged governments across the continent to develop integrated value chains that will strengthen local industries, improve competitiveness and unlock greater economic opportunities for millions of Africans.