DRC Moves Closer to First Lithium Export from Manono Project
DR Congo Prepares for First Lithium Exports from Manono as Government Pushes Project Development
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is moving closer to its first lithium exports from the Manono lithium project, one of Africa’s most significant undeveloped lithium resources.
The development marks an important step for the country as it seeks to expand its role in the global critical minerals market, particularly as demand for lithium continues to grow due to its use in electric vehicle batteries, energy storage systems and renewable energy technologies.
DR Congo’s Minister of Industry, Julien Paluku, said government support for the project would depend on commitments that ensure the country gains greater economic benefits from its mineral resources.
Authorities are seeking to promote local value addition, stronger participation of Congolese businesses and improved economic returns from lithium production rather than relying solely on the export of raw minerals.
The Manono project, located in Tanganyika Province, is considered one of the largest lithium deposits in the world and has attracted significant international interest due to the rising demand for battery minerals.
The government has emphasised the importance of developing infrastructure, improving regulatory oversight and ensuring responsible mining practices as the project advances.
The start of lithium exports would represent a major milestone for the DRC’s mining sector, which is already a leading global producer of cobalt and a major supplier of copper.
As global competition for critical minerals increases, the successful development of Manono could strengthen the DRC’s position in international battery supply chains while creating new opportunities for investment, employment and industrial growth.
