SEVERAL African countries, including Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Mozambique, are ramping up in-country lithium processing operations after banning the export of raw lithium. The move comes as these nations aim to capitalise on surging global demand for the battery metal, which is essential for electric vehicles (EVs) and other renewable energy technologies.
Zimbabwe, home to one of the largest known deposits of lithium globally, is leading this trend. Following a ban on raw lithium exports in December 2022, the country has seen a sharp rise in investments in local processing plants. Notably, a $310 million deal has been signed between the state-owned Kivumba Mining House and British-Chinese investors to build a lithium processing facility at the Sandawana mine. When fully operational, the plant is expected to produce 600,000 tons of lithium concentrate annually.
Other African nations, such as Mozambique and Nigeria, are following suit, with significant investments in lithium processing facilities. For instance, Nigeria recently inaugurated its largest lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State, spearheaded by China’s Avatar New Energy Materials. The Nigerian government has also banned raw lithium exports, ensuring that mining companies invest in local processing plants.
This wave of in-country mineral processing is expected to transform Africa’s role in the global battery supply chain. With lithium demand skyrocketing due to the energy transition, African nations are poised to become significant players in the renewable energy market.
Recent developments
- Zimbabwe’s lithium processing projects are set to meet 20 percent of global demand if fully developed.
- Nigeria has launched major processing plants in partnership with Chinese companies.
- Mozambique and Tanzania are also seeing significant investments in lithium processing.
As Africa gears up to meet the demands of the global energy transition, its focus on local processing facilities is set to elevate the continent’s position in the renewable energy landscape.
Source: Africabriefing
