Source: Zim urged to use lithium wealth for resource-based industrialisation – herald
Mashonaland Central Bureau
ZIMBABWE’S decision to ban the export of unprocessed lithium is expected to accelerate beneficiation and value addition in the mining sector, positioning the mineral as a key driver of industrialisation and economic transformation.
Lithium, a critical mineral used in electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies, has become one of the most sought-after resources globally as countries transition to clean energy.
The Government recently banned the export of raw minerals to promote local processing of the resources and ensure the nation derives maximum value from its mineral wealth.
Speaking during a recent discussion on inclusive industrial policies, IndustriALL Global Union Sub-Saharan Africa regional office communications and research officer Mr Elijah Chiwota said Zimbabwe has an opportunity to use critical transition minerals such as lithium to fund development.
“Zimbabwe is one of the largest producers of lithium globally, and these minerals present a real opportunity for resource-based industrialisation,” he said.
Instead of relying heavily on foreign direct investment, he said, the country could leverage revenues from its mineral resources to drive development and create jobs.
“Critical transition minerals can be used for industrialisation and for creating decent jobs if the country implements the right policies and ensures beneficiation,” he said.
Zimbabwe is among the top global producers of lithium, with mining operations expanding in areas such as Goromonzi and Bikita.
Mr Chiwota said the push for beneficiation aligns with broader continental frameworks such as the African Green Minerals Strategy, adopted in 2025.
The strategy builds on the African Mining Vision and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which seek to ensure Africa’s natural resources contribute to sustainable development and industrial growth.
He believes resource-based industrialisation would allow African countries to process their minerals locally rather than exporting raw materials and importing finished products.
“If Zimbabwe can beneficiate its lithium and other minerals locally, it can create industries around battery manufacturing and other green technologies,” he said.
The global energy transition underway, he added, presents Zimbabwe with a unique opportunity to leverage its mineral resources to fund infrastructure development and economic growth.
Mr Chiwota, however, cautioned that the benefits of mining would only be fully realised if workers’ rights are protected and communities benefit from the resources extracted in their areas.
“There is a need for decent jobs, respect for workers’ rights, living wages and freedom of association in the mining sector.”
Some mine workers often face dangerous working conditions, wage theft and limited collective bargaining.
He also highlighted concerns over extractive mining models that leave local communities without meaningful benefits.
“In some mining towns, you see the minerals leaving but there is little development for the communities living there,” he said.
He stressed that sustainable mining must include environmental protection, community development and fair compensation for people displaced by mining activities.
Zimbabwe’s mining sector is expected to play an increasingly important role in the economy, with lithium, platinum group metals and other critical minerals gaining prominence due to the global shift towards clean energy technologies.
Experts say the country’s mineral wealth could help drive industrialisation, job creation and economic growth.
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