Tanzania is advancing its lithium market position driven by government initiatives and foreign investments. The 2023 export ban on raw lithium promotes domestic processing. The Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy aims to manage resources efficiently, while a nationwide geological survey seeks to map mineral resources. Private companies are also making significant investments, and events like African Mining Week will connect them with investors.
Tanzania is enhancing its position in the global lithium market through government initiatives and international investment. Following a 2023 ban on raw lithium exports, which aims to stimulate domestic processing, the country is witnessing a significant influx of capital, leading to various projects in development to improve its lithium production capacity.
To attract investments in both lithium and critical minerals, the Tanzanian government launched the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy in late 2024. This strategy, currently undergoing stakeholder consultations, seeks to optimize resource management, facilitate exploration and mining, and bolster supply chain logistics for minerals like lithium.
An additional initiative, announced in October 2024, involves a 73 billion TZS High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey managed by the Geological Survey of Tanzania. This survey aims to map the nation’s mineral resources, including lithium, and is expected to cover 50% of the country by 2030, enhancing exploration and investment opportunities.
Tanzania also formed a partnership with the Minerals Security Partnership in September 2024, which includes 14 Western nations and the European Commission. This collaboration aims to expand financing access, share technical expertise, and improve supply chains, thereby bolstering investments in critical minerals like lithium and graphite.
Private sector involvement is increasing, with international mining firms actively exploring lithium in Tanzania. Notably, in July 2024, Australian company AustChina confirmed high-grade lithium deposits at its Chenene Project. Similarly, Dubai-based Titanium Lithium and U.S.-based CGrowth Capital have both reported significant lithium-bearing mineral discoveries in their respective projects.
The upcoming African Mining Week will showcase Tanzanian lithium projects and connect developers with potential investors. This prominent event, taking place alongside the African Energy Week from October 1-3 in Cape Town, aims to highlight collaboration and investment opportunities across the entire African lithium value chain.
Tanzania is making substantial strides in the lithium market through strategic government initiatives and increasing private sector investments. The 2023 export ban and several strategic programs are designed to bolster resource management and attract capital. Partnerships with international coalitions further enhance financing and technical support for critical minerals. As private firms explore lithium-rich areas, events like African Mining Week will facilitate connections with potential investors, underscoring Tanzania’s potential in the global lithium industry.
Original Source: energycapitalpower.com
