Ghana to process its first lithium locally
Ghana is planning to process its first lithium locally in order to maximize its revenue from this valuable resource. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Jinapor confirmed the report and said Ghana does not intend to export its green minerals, including lithium, in their raw form. Instead, the country aims to participate in the value chain of lithium processing to capture more value from the resource. This strategy aligns with the broader goal of adding value to raw materials before exporting them, which can lead to increased revenue and job creation within the country.
Demand for EV
Lithium is a key component of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and with the growing demand for EVs worldwide, this move can have significant economic benefits for Ghana. Although Ghana may not be ready to produce EVs in the short term, the government recognizes the importance of participating in the value chain to ensure long-term benefits. By attracting investment and developing consistent policies on green minerals, such as lithium, Ghana is positioning itself as an attractive destination for mining companies and investors in the renewable energy sector.
Ghana’s status as Africa’s top gold producer, with 116 tons of gold mined in 2022, has been restored, according to Minister Jinapor. He expressed confidence that new investments in the gold mining sector would further solidify Ghana’s position as the leading producer on the continent, making its lead “unassailable.”
Overall, Ghana’s focus on local processing of lithium and the development of policies for green minerals indicate a proactive approach to harnessing the potential of its natural resources and maximizing the economic benefits for the country.
