Mining for Lithium in Africa

Africa is becoming a key player in the global lithium supply chain, with several countries rich in lithium-bearing pegmatites. As demand for lithium surges due to its use in electric vehicle (EV) batteries and energy storage systems, lithium mining in Africa is gaining strategic importance.

Here’s a concise look at lithium mining in Africa, including major countries and projects.

1. Why Is Africa Important for Lithium Mining?

Africa hosts high-grade lithium pegmatite deposits, particularly in the southern and central parts of the continent. These deposits are rich in spodumene, a lithium-bearing mineral ideal for battery-grade lithium production.

2. Top African Countries for Lithium Mining

Several African countries are emerging as lithium producers:

• Zimbabwe: Home to the Arcadia and Pete lithium projects, with high-grade spodumene deposits.
• Namibia: Developing lithium from pegmatites in the Erongo region, attracting international investment.
• Mali: The Goulamina Lithium Project is one of the highest-grade lithium mines in Africa.
• Zambia and Ghana: Early-stage exploration and resource development underway.
• Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Known for cobalt, also has lithium potential in pegmatite zones.

3. Lithium-Bearing Minerals in Africa

The primary lithium mineral found in Africa is:

• Spodumene (LiAlSi₂O₆): Found in granite pegmatites, it is the most economically viable source of lithium.
• Lepidolite and Amblygonite: Found in some pegmatite bodies, but less commonly mined.

These minerals are processed to produce lithium concentrate, which is then exported for refining into lithium carbonate or hydroxide.

4. Major Lithium Projects in Africa

• Arcadia Lithium Project (Zimbabwe): One of the most advanced lithium projects in Africa, operated by Allkem Ltd.
• Goulamina Lithium Project (Mali): High-grade lithium deposit being developed by Firefinch Ltd.
• Kamativi Lithium Project (Zimbabwe): Being redeveloped after previous tin mining operations.
• Ewoyaa Lithium Project (Ghana): Under development with potential for large-scale production.
• Namibia’s Lithium Prospects: Pegmatite belts in the Erongo region are attracting exploration interest.

5. Future Outlook for Lithium Mining in Africa

As the world shifts toward clean energy and electric mobility, lithium mining in Africa is expected to grow. Key trends include:

• Increased foreign investment from battery and EV companies
• Development of local processing and refining to add value
• Sustainable mining practices and ethical sourcing initiatives
• Regional cooperation to build a Southern African lithium supply chain

Africa’s lithium sector is poised to play a critical role in the global energy transition.

FAQs

Q1: Is lithium mined in Africa?
A1: Yes, particularly in Zimbabwe, Mali, and Namibia, with spodumene as the main lithium mineral.

Q2: What type of lithium is found in Africa?
A2: Most lithium in Africa is found in pegmatite deposits, primarily as spodumene.

Q3: Who is investing in African lithium?
A3: Companies like Allkem, Firefinch, and AVZ Minerals are active in Africa, with growing interest from Chinese and European battery firms.

Conclusion

Lithium mining in Africa is on the rise, with Zimbabwe, Mali, and Namibia leading the way. With high-grade deposits and growing global demand, Africa is becoming a key supplier of lithium for the EV and renewable energy industries.