As ocean protection slowly climbs the ladder of global priorities, another, more troubling reality is unfolding quietly beneath the surface: deep-sea mining. Still largely unknown to the public, this emerging industry threatens some of the planet’s most fragile ecosystems. In the face of such a risk, Africa cannot remain a passive observer. The continent must take a clear stand against this new frontier of extractivism and raise its voice in international negotiations.
In recent years, calls to protect the high seas have multiplied. Conferences are held, treaties are negotiated, and commitments are made. But at the same time, another dynamic is taking shape, far from the spotlight and the media radar: the push for deep-sea mining. This is not just a technical debate or an issue for environmentalists. What’s unfolding in the deep sea directly affects the future of the planet and of the African continent.
An invisible, yet very real threat
Deep-sea mining involves extracting rare metals such as cobalt, nickel, and manganese in the form of polymetallic nodules found on the ocean floor. It requires massive machines capable of plowing through seabeds at depths of several thousand meters. The problem? These areas host unique, largely unexplored biodiversity that is incredibly fragile. The impacts could be irreversible: habitat destruction, species extinction, disruption of the climate and oceanic food chains.
All of this is happening even before the economic promises of this industry have materialized, if they ever do. As it stands, there is no guarantee that any benefits will reach local populations or contribute to truly sustainable development.
We must urgently remind ourselves of a few simple but essential truths: the oceans produce 50% of the oxygen we breathe, absorb 25% of global CO₂ emissions, and capture 90% of the excess heat generated by those emissions. In other words, they are our first line of defense against climate change. Destabilizing them is digging our own grave.
A global debate that needs Africa’s voice
The recent United Nations Ocean Conference, held in Nice, saw several countries ratify the High Seas Treaty, a text designed to strengthen governance over marine areas beyond national jurisdictions. African countries have every reason to support this momentum. But they must go further.
The BBNJ Agreement, stemming from the treaty, aims to ensure the conservation of marine biodiversity. Meanwhile, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is tasked with regulating mining activities in these zones. Both frameworks now stand at a crossroads: they will either become effective tools for protection or mere technical justifications for a destructive industry.
It is wishful thinking to believe we can protect the oceans while allowing industrial exploitation of the deep sea. A choice must be made. And Africa cannot let others make that choice on its behalf.
A historic responsibility
Across the continent, millions of people depend on marine resources. Artisanal fishing, coastal tourism, and local economies all rely on healthy oceans. Oceans feed, protect, and sustain lives, quietly and unconditionally. The least we can do is offer them the protection they deserve.
Saying no to deep-sea mining is not a rejection of progress. It is an affirmation of responsibility. It is recognizing that progress is only meaningful if it is sustainable, fair, and respectful of life. Africa has both the right and the duty to promote a model of development that doesn’t sacrifice ecosystems for short-term profit.
Demanding a global moratorium-Now
Given the ecological urgency and the lack of knowledge about the long-term consequences of this industry, a global moratorium is essential. We need time to assess the risks, strengthen scientific research, and most importantly, to open up a genuine democratic debate about the future we want to build.
Africa cannot afford to sit on the sidelines of this debate. It must take a firm position, demand an immediate moratorium on deep-sea mining, and commit to protecting a global common good that is vital to the future of all humanity.
Doing nothing means accepting the irreversible. Taking a stand means defending life. The time to act is now.