Marula Mining, WEEE Centre partner to launch lithium battery recycling facility in Kenya
Marula Mining PLC, a UK-listed mining and metals company, has revealed plans to set up Kenya’s first lithium-ion battery recycling and critical metals recovery plant. The initiative will be carried out in collaboration with Nairobi-based electronic waste management firm, WEEE Centre, through a dedicated special purpose vehicle (SPV).
As part of the partnership, Marula will inject €500,000 (around KES 70 million) into the project’s early-stage development via its local arm, Marula Metals Processing Limited. The plant will focus on reclaiming valuable elements such as lithium, cobalt, manganese, and nickel from used lithium-ion batteries, using environmentally sound and proven technologies. The facility will also incorporate a black mass extraction line to support safe and sustainable material recovery.
Jason Brewer, CEO of Marula Mining, stated that the collaboration aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable development, industrial growth, and support for Kenya’s green energy transition. He emphasized the project’s potential to deliver scalable infrastructure for critical material recycling in the region.
Sustainable solutions
Founded in 2012, WEEE Centre is a licensed social enterprise with operations in 18 African countries. The organization has become a key player in promoting safe e-waste disposal, youth employment, and circular economy initiatives. The idea for the recycling plant emerged after WEEE Centre presented a proposal to Marula highlighting the need for sustainable lithium battery waste solutions in Kenya’s rapidly growing e-mobility and renewable energy sectors.
Bonnie Mbithi, CEO of WEEE Centre, noted that the project offers a dual benefit addressing environmental concerns while generating green employment and building local capacity in battery recycling.
Used batteries will be sourced from households, telecom firms, solar companies, and other e-waste collectors nationwide. A joint monitoring framework will guide fund utilization and ensure alignment with environmental and social impact targets.
Beyond waste reduction, the facility is expected to attract investment, promote domestic manufacturing, and reduce Kenya’s reliance on imported battery materials. If successful, it could serve as a regional blueprint for responsible battery recycling across Africa.
