Minister Augusto Nardes Leads Dialogue on Sustainability and Extractive Industries in Africa
By Secom / Serint
Minister Augusto Nardes, of the Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts (TCU), paticipated in the Annual AFROSAI-E Extractive Industries Workshop & WGEI Steering Committee Meeting in Livingstone, Zambia, from July 15 17. He represented the President of the TCU and current Chair of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), Minister Vital do Rêgo.
In his opening address to representatives from more than 30 African countries, Minister Nardes highlighted the importance of managing natural resources in a responsible and sustainable way. “Zambia, as one of the world’s largest copper reserves, is a clear example of how natural wealth can be transformed into sustainable development,” he stated.
Despite its abundant natural resources, Africa continues to face significant development challenges. Minister Nardes noted that while the continent is rich in extractive potential, many areas still lag behind in key development indicators. “This disparity compels us to reflect on how we can help change this reality by promoting sustainable practices,” he said.
The Minister stressed the importance of governance and transparency. “The standards we are discussing here are essential to ensure that international investors feel confident in allocating resources to African countries. This not only stimulates economic growth, but also ensures that the benefits reach local communities,” he explained.
Climate issues were also central to the discussions. Minister Nardes highlighted how climate change is already impacting agricultural production, citing recent events in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, where farmers have suffered significant losses. “Awareness of the connection between fossil fuel consumption and climate change is vital if we are to prevent similar crises in other regions,” he warned.
Throughout the event, Minister Nardes and other leaders explored extractive practices that respect and protect nature. “It is essential that natural resource extraction be carried out sustainably, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy the benefits that the Earth has to offer,” he said.
According to the Minister, humanity’s progress depends on our collective awareness of the importance of environmental balance. “By working together, countries from different continents can find innovative solutions to the challenges we face,” he concluded.
Minister Nardes was accompanied at the event by José Emanoel Monteiro, Chief of Staff and Senior Auditor, and Alexandre Figueiredo, Head of the Department of Government Audit for Energy and Communications (SecexEnergia).