Wayne Lumbasi
Mali has taken a bold stride toward transforming its vast mineral wealth into sustainable growth with the inauguration of its second lithium mine in Bougouni.
The landmark $65 million project, developed in partnership with the United Kingdom’s Kodal Mining and China’s Hainan Mining, marks a new chapter in the country’s industrial journey and its determination to take charge of its energy future.
Located in southern Mali, the Bougouni Lithium Mine is projected to produce 120,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate each year, a crucial raw material for lithium ion batteries that power electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. This achievement not only strengthens Mali’s economic foundation but also places the nation at the forefront of Africa’s clean energy transition.
President Assimi Goïta hailed the project as a symbol of Mali’s resilience and ambition, emphasizing that the government’s vision goes beyond extraction. “We are building a foundation for transformation, not just mining,” he said during the launch ceremony. The project is expected to generate thousands of local jobs, enhance infrastructure, and attract new investment into processing and value addition, key steps in reducing dependency on raw exports.
The Bougouni mine’s strategic collaboration between Mali, the UK, and China highlights a growing confidence in African led industrialization and international partnerships built on mutual benefit.
As the demand for electric vehicles and green technologies accelerates worldwide, Mali’s expanding lithium sector positions it to become a cornerstone in the global EV battery supply chain.
By 2026, the nation aims to emerge as one of Africa’s top lithium producers, setting a powerful example of how resource rich countries can harness their natural wealth to drive innovation, energy sovereignty, and inclusive growth.
From the heart of West Africa, Mali’s lithium revolution is shining as a beacon of hope, signaling a continent ready to power the world’s green future.
MORE NEWS
MALI, NIGER AND BURKINA FASO TO FUND NEW INVESTMENT BANK WITH TAX REVENUE
NIGERIA TO OPEN $800M CHINESE-FUNDED LITHIUM PLANTS TO BOOST LOCAL INDUSTRY
