Zimbabwe plans to manufacture lithium batteries and has since struck an agreement with a potential investor willing to set up a plant, Mines and Mining Development Deputy Minister Polite Kambamura has said.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the foreign investor was reportedly signed last week.
Lithium is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries that underpin the transition to green energy.
“We signed an MoU with a company interested in manufacturing lithium batteries in Mapinga, Mashonaland West province, and we expect this to be a game changer,” said Deputy Minister Kambamura.
“Our big advantage is that we have most of the mineral components needed for manufacturing of the batteries, including nickel, cobalt and copper.
“We have no doubt the project will make Zimbabwe the hub for lithium batteries in the region.”
However, analysts say Zimbabwe needs huge investments to produce battery-grade lithium.
“We need to address issues such as skills and the technology. That is critical,” said mining expert Engineer Fred Moyo.
The global crusade to reduce carbon emissions has led to growing demand for low-carbon technology.
Countries are increasingly embracing solar and wind as alternative sources of energy as opposed to fossil fuels such as coal.
Vehicle makers are also shifting to electric vehicles while financial institutions are cutting back spending on coal-fired power stations.
The urgent need for climate change mitigation is driving the unprecedented demand for metals such as lithium, copper and nickel.
Zimbabwe holds Africa’s largest lithium reserves.
“It is encouraging that the interest is cutting across, from mining to beneficiation . . . These projects will be a game changer,” added Mr Kambamura.
Source: Bulawayo24.com
