Zijin Mining Group anticipates starting lithium production in the DRC by Q1 2026 through its Katamba Mining joint venture with Cominiere, expanding mining efforts near the Manono lithium site launched in 2022.
Zijin Mining Group, a prominent Chinese mining company, is set to commence production at its inaugural lithium exploration venture in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during the first quarter of 2026, according to Cailianshe, a Chinese finance news outlet. The project, launched in partnership with the state-owned DRC enterprise Cominiere in 2022, is executed through a joint venture named Katamba Mining. This collaboration has obtained the rights to conduct exploration and extraction within two greenfield mining sites located near the existing Manono lithium mine in the DRC.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is increasingly recognized for its vast lithium reserves, which are vital for producing batteries, particularly for electric vehicles. The strategic partnerships formed by companies like Zijin and Cominiere signify not only investment in the region’s mining sector but also a growing recognition of lithium’s significance in global markets. Such ventures are indicative of broader trends towards sustainable energy solutions and the search for critical mineral resources necessary for modern technology.
In summary, Zijin Mining Group’s initiative to begin lithium production in the DRC reflects a significant investment in the region’s resource potential. The project’s expected launch in 2026, through a strategic joint venture with Cominiere, underscores the growing importance of lithium in the global economy, particularly in the context of sustainable technologies.
Original Source: www.mining.com
