World Bank report says harnessing Africa's natural assets could unleash fiscal, ecological dividends

NAIROBI, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Africa's vast natural wealth including minerals, oil, gas and rare metals if prudently utilized has the ability to leapfrog the continent to new heights of prosperity besides hastening the continent's green transition, the World Bank said in a new report launched Wednesday.

Titled "Africa's Resource Future," the report suggests that African states should leverage rising demand for metals, hydrocarbons and precious minerals to finance social programs like health and education, diversify their economies and expand access to energy.