Africa is emerging as a critical player in the global battery supply chain due to its vast reserves of key minerals such as cobalt and lithium. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) holds the world’s largest cobalt reserves, while Zimbabwe ranks among the top lithium producers. These resources are essential for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. However, despite the abundance of raw materials, Africa faces significant challenges in leveraging its mineral wealth, including inadequate infrastructure, geopolitical instability, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. Partnerships with Chinese and Western firms are shaping the continent’s role in the battery supply chain, but sustainable and equitable development remains a pressing issue.
The DRC dominates global cobalt production, supplying approximately 70% of the world’s cobalt. This mineral is crucial for battery cathodes, particularly in high-nickel formulations used in electric vehicles. Most of the DRC’s cobalt is extracted from the Copperbelt region, where large-scale industrial mines operate alongside artisanal mining sites. Artisanal mining, which employs thousands of workers, has been linked to unsafe working conditions, child labor, and environmental degradation. These issues have drawn scrutiny from international regulators and battery manufacturers seeking ethically sourced materials. Efforts to formalize artisanal mining and improve traceability are underway, but progress is slow due to weak governance and corruption.
Zimbabwe has also gained attention for its lithium reserves, which are among the largest in Africa. The country’s hard-rock lithium deposits are found in the Bikita and Arcadia regions, where several mining projects are in development. Zimbabwe’s government has imposed restrictions on raw lithium exports to encourage local processing, but limited refining capacity and unreliable electricity supply hinder these ambitions. Chinese companies have invested heavily in Zimbabwe’s lithium sector, acquiring mining rights and constructing processing plants. These investments align with China’s strategy to secure battery materials for its domestic electric vehicle industry.
Infrastructure deficits pose a major obstacle to Africa’s battery material supply chain. Many mining regions lack reliable roads, railways, and ports, increasing transportation costs and delays. Energy shortages further complicate operations, as mining and processing require substantial electricity. In the DRC, for example, only about 20% of the population has access to electricity, forcing mines to rely on expensive diesel generators. Upgrading infrastructure would require significant investment, but financing is often deterred by political risks and uncertain returns.
ESG concerns are another critical challenge. Cobalt mining in the DRC has been associated with human rights abuses, including child labor and exploitative working conditions. Environmental damage from unregulated mining, such as water pollution and deforestation, has also raised alarms. Western firms and battery manufacturers are under pressure to ensure responsible sourcing, leading to initiatives like the Responsible Minerals Initiative and the Cobalt Refinery Supply Chain Due Diligence Standard. However, enforcement remains inconsistent, and many artisanal miners continue to operate outside formal supply chains.
Chinese companies play a dominant role in Africa’s battery material sector, controlling a significant share of cobalt and lithium mining and processing. Firms like CMOC Group, Huayou Cobalt, and Sinomine Resource Group have secured long-term supply agreements and invested in local infrastructure. China’s involvement is driven by its ambition to lead the global electric vehicle market, but critics argue that Chinese investments often prioritize short-term gains over sustainable development. Western firms, including Tesla, Glencore, and Umicore, are also active in Africa but face stiff competition from Chinese players. Some Western companies are exploring partnerships with local governments and NGOs to improve ESG standards and community engagement.
The geopolitical landscape further complicates Africa’s position in the battery supply chain. The DRC and Zimbabwe have experienced political instability, regulatory uncertainty, and disputes over mining contracts. These factors create risks for investors and delay project timelines. Additionally, global tensions between China and Western nations over critical mineral supply chains could influence Africa’s mining sector. The U.S. and European Union are seeking to reduce reliance on Chinese-controlled supply chains by diversifying sources of battery materials, but Africa’s infrastructure and governance challenges remain significant barriers.
Despite these hurdles, Africa’s potential in battery material mining is undeniable. The continent holds a substantial portion of the world’s cobalt, lithium, and other critical minerals needed for the energy transition. Realizing this potential will require coordinated efforts between governments, mining companies, and international partners to address infrastructure gaps, improve governance, and ensure sustainable practices. If these challenges can be overcome, Africa could become a cornerstone of the global battery supply chain, supporting the growth of clean energy technologies worldwide.
The future of Africa’s battery material industry hinges on balancing economic development with social and environmental responsibility. While Chinese investments have accelerated mining activities, long-term success will depend on transparency, fair labor practices, and environmental stewardship. Western firms and international organizations can contribute by supporting capacity-building initiatives and advocating for stronger regulatory frameworks. As demand for battery materials continues to rise, Africa’s role in the global market will be shaped by its ability to navigate these complex dynamics and secure a sustainable path forward.