Mali’s transitional authorities have inaugurated operations at the Goulamina lithium mine, located in the southern part of the country. The mine, owned by China’s Ganfeng Lithium, is a major resource with an annual capacity of 2.5 million tonnes of ore used in manufacturing batteries, smartphones, and electric vehicles.
In addition to producing over 500 tonnes of spodumene concentrate annually, the mine is expected to generate over 400 billion CFA Francs in revenue each year, providing a significant boost to Mali’s economy.
The project is also set to create thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, contributing to a reduction in unemployment. With operations scheduled to last 21 years, Mali is poised to become the first West African nation to produce lithium, marking a milestone in the region’s industrial development.