Tanzania is advancing its position in the global lithium market through government initiatives and private investments. The 2023 ban on raw lithium exports promotes local downstream investments. Key strategies include the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy and significant geophysical surveys. The private sector’s involvement is increasing, with international companies actively exploring lithium resources. Upcoming events like African Mining Week will enhance networking and investment opportunities.
Tanzania is enhancing its role in the global lithium market through governmental strategies and the active involvement of international companies. Since imposing a ban on raw lithium exports in 2023, the country has seen a rise in investments aimed at promoting local processing, with numerous projects in development.
To allure new investments in lithium and critical minerals, the Tanzanian government has initiated several strategic programs. Notable among these is the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy launched in late 2024, which is currently in stakeholder consultation. This initiative seeks to optimize resource management by promoting exploration, mining, and local processing, as well as improving supply chain management.
Furthermore, the Geological Survey of Tanzania introduced a High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey project, valued at 73 billion TZS, in October 2024. This national survey aims to map out mineral resources, including lithium, with a goal of covering 50% of the country by 2030, thus supporting exploration and investment initiatives.
In September 2024, Tanzania allied with the Minerals Security Partnership, a coalition involving 14 Western countries and the European Commission. This partnership seeks to improve access to financing, exchange technical know-how, and bolster supply chains for critical minerals, including lithium and graphite, thereby enhancing investment opportunities in this sector.
Private sector involvement is on the rise, with several international enterprises making significant investments in Tanzanian lithium projects. For instance, AustChina, an Australian firm, confirmed high-grade deposits at its Chenene Project in July 2024. Simultaneously, Dubai-based Titanium Lithium reported the discovery of lithium-bearing minerals at their Titan projects, while U.S.-based CGrowth Capital unearthed lithium deposits in Tanzania’s Dodoma Region.
The forthcoming African Mining Week will serve as a crucial connector between Tanzanian lithium projects and potential investors. Scheduled alongside the African Energy Week 2025 in Cape Town from October 1-3, this event will showcase opportunities across the Tanzanian and broader African lithium value chain, fostering collaboration and investment prospects.
In conclusion, Tanzania’s strategic initiatives and private investments are establishing a robust framework for growth in the lithium market. With governmental programs aimed at optimizing resource management and significant private sector contributions, the country is poised to become a key player in the global lithium sector. Upcoming events like African Mining Week will further facilitate investment and collaboration, highlighting Tanzania’s potential in critical minerals.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
