Tanzania is advancing in the lithium market through government initiatives and private investment, including a raw export ban to encourage domestic projects. Key strategies focus on resource management and increased exploration, with partnerships to strengthen the supply chain. Global mining firms are showing significant interest, with exploration confirming high-grade lithium. Upcoming events will connect projects with investors, promoting further collaboration and investment opportunities.
Tanzania is enhancing its global lithium market position through governmental initiatives and active participation by international firms. A significant investment surge followed the 2023 ban on raw lithium exports, aimed at fostering downstream investment. Various projects are currently underway to solidify this trend in the sector.
In late 2024, the Tanzanian government introduced the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy, focused on attracting investments in both lithium and critical minerals. This strategy is currently in stakeholder consultation and intends to optimize resource management through exploration, mining, local beneficiation, and improved supply chain management.
Additionally, in October 2024, the Geological Survey of Tanzania initiated a nationwide High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey valued at 73 billion TZS, aimed at mapping the country’s mineral resources. With only 20% of the land surveyed so far, the goal is to map 50% by 2030, further supporting exploration and investment initiatives.
In September 2024, Tanzania formed a partnership with the Minerals Security Partnership, comprising 14 Western nations and the European Commission, to enhance financing access and share expertise in critical minerals like lithium and graphite. These strategic collaborations are anticipated to bolster investments across the entire lithium value chain.
Investment from the private sector is also growing, with several international mining companies focusing on Tanzanian lithium projects. For instance, in July 2024, AustChina completed exploration revealing high-grade lithium deposits at its Chenene Project, while Dubai-based Titanium Lithium identified lithium-bearing minerals at its Titan 1 and Titan 2 sites. Furthermore, U.S. firm CGrowth Capital discovered lithium deposits during mapping in Tanzania’s Dodoma Region.
The upcoming African Mining Week will serve as a pivotal platform, linking Tanzanian lithium projects with prospective investors. This event will showcase opportunities not only within Tanzania but across Africa’s lithium value chain, promoting collaboration and investment. It will be held alongside the African Energy Week from October 1-3 in Cape Town, providing numerous networking opportunities for sponsors and exhibitors.
Tanzania is making significant strides in the lithium market through strategic governmental initiatives and private sector involvement. The 2023 export ban has prompted a surge in investment, while new exploration and mapping projects are underway. Collaborations with international partners further enhance the country’s capacity to attract investors and optimize resource management, positioning Tanzania as a rising player in the global lithium industry.
Original Source: energycapitalpower.com
