Mali has officially launched its first-ever lithium processing plant, setting a historic milestone as the first country in West Africa to produce lithium on a global scale.
This groundbreaking project, inaugurated by Transitional President and General of the Army, His Excellency Assimi Goita, signifies Mali’s bold entry into the circle of world lithium producers.
The lithium plant, located in Goulamina, spans an impressive 1,750 hectares and represents a massive investment of 312 billion FCFA. This achievement stems from a strategic partnership between Mali and the Chinese company Ganfeng Lithium, with Mali holding a 35% stake and Ganfeng controlling 65%. 
This development is more than an industrial triumph; it marks a transformative chapter for Mali’s economy. The plant is expected to create numerous jobs, significantly reducing unemployment and uplifting the livelihoods of local communities. Moreover, it will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, both locally and nationally, enhancing the region’s prosperity.
Lithium, a critical component in electric vehicle batteries and other cutting-edge technologies, positions Mali as a key contributor to the global energy transition. By capitalizing on this valuable resource, Mali is not only advancing its economic agenda but also playing an essential role in the push for cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions worldwide.
This remarkable achievement is the result of close collaboration with China, whose expertise and technological support were pivotal in bringing the project to life. This partnership underscores the strengthening ties between Mali and China while paving the way for even more ambitious joint ventures in the future.
As Mali joins the ranks of global lithium producers, this initiative stands as a testament to the nation’s resilience, ambition, and commitment to driving progress on both regional and international stages.
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