Africa is at a turning point in the global shift towards a low-carbon economy, with a high demand for critical minerals like cobalt, lithium, and platinum for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. Despite holding vast reserves of these resources, African economies are heavily reliant on exporting raw materials, risking a new form of resource dependency termed 'green colonialism'. However, changes in global trade dynamics present opportunities for Africa to support green industrialization and value addition. The article highlights departures from WTO rules by the Global North, such as tax incentives for electric vehicles and carbon border adjustments. African countries are urged to seize this moment and invest in local processing to reap maximum economic benefits. Initiatives in the DRC, Zambia, and South Africa are already promoting battery manufacturing and mineral processing. Strong industrial policy interventions, like minimum beneficiation requirements, are essential for attracting investments in local processing and manufacturing, ensuring Africa's active participation in the global green transition.