Lithium mining in Africa has a dark side that’s causing a lot of concern. It’s not just about the green energy revolution, but also about the impact on local communities and the environment. Recent investigations have revealed some troubling issues surrounding the rush for lithium in Africa. At a lithium mine in Namibia run by a Chinese company, local workers have been living in poor conditions and facing unsafe work practices. The Mineworkers Union of Namibia conducted a fact-finding mission and found that the local miners were living in tiny, hot shacks without proper ventilation. They also criticized the lack of privacy in the sanitation blocks. On the other hand, the Chinese workers at the mine have better living conditions and facilities. The union also pointed out the lack of protective clothing and safety measures for the local workers.
The controversy doesn’t stop there. A new investigation by UK-based nonprofit Global Witness has outlined accusations against the Chinese mining company, including bribery and exploiting small-scale licenses to develop the mine while bypassing environmental regulations. This concerning trend of corruption is not limited to Namibia but also extends to lithium mines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zimbabwe. The report documents human rights abuses, corruption, displacement, and unsafe working practices in these areas.
Lithium, often referred to as the “white gold” of the renewable energy revolution, is a crucial component of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in cell phones and electric cars. It’s also essential for storing energy from clean sources like solar and wind. While Australia, Chile, and China currently dominate the global lithium supply, Africa holds enormous untapped potential, with only Zimbabwe and Namibia exporting lithium ore at present. However, with the projected 40-fold increase in demand for lithium by 2040, major economies and international companies are racing to secure access to lithium in Africa.
Zimbabwe’s president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has hailed lithium as the mineral of the present and the future. The country has seen a significant increase in earnings from lithium exports, but concerns remain about the export of raw lithium and the involvement of military-linked companies. Farai Maguwu, director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance, believes that the current system of governance poses a threat to the country due to the lack of mechanisms to ensure that the benefits of lithium mining reach the host communities.
China’s dominance in lithium extraction in Africa has raised fears of a monopoly, with more than 80% of Africa’s forecast lithium supply coming from projects owned by Chinese firms. This has led to concerns about under-valuation of mineral resources, tax avoidance, and human rights abuses. Calls have been made for increased transparency and oversight by local activists to improve governance and combat corruption in the lithium mining sector.
The rush for lithium in Africa is not just about the promise of green energy; it’s also about the impact on local communities and the environment. As the demand for lithium continues to grow, it’s crucial to address the concerns raised by investigations and ensure that the benefits of lithium mining are shared equitably and sustainably with the communities involved.