RWANDA JOINS GLOBAL LITHIUM BOOM WITH RIO TINTO-BACKED DISCOVERY

Rwanda strikes high-grade lithium in joint venture with Rio Tinto, marking a major step into the global clean energy minerals market.

High-grade lithium discovery Rwanda Mining Economy investments Energy transition.
Rwanda Discovers high-grade lithium
Rwanda Discovers high-grade lithium



Rwanda is emerging as a serious contender in the global race for critical minerals following the discovery of high-grade lithium at a Southern Province exploration site, a find that could transform the country’s mining future and attract billions in green economy investments.

UK-based Aterian Plc, in partnership with global mining giant Rio Tinto, announced on 10 July that initial drilling at their HCK Project has confirmed commercially viable lithium grades, a vital breakthrough in Rwanda’s efforts to diversify its mineral base and position itself in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain.

Drill hole MWOG0002 returned a 6.9-metre section with 2.11% lithium, including a high-grade zone of 3.45 metres at 3.20% lithium figures that place the discovery among some of the most promising early-stage finds on the continent.

“This is just the beginning,” said Aterian CEO Simon Rollason. “These early indications provide a robust base as we expand exploration. Only two prospects have been tested, leaving significant potential untapped.”

The discovery stems from a 2023 joint venture between Aterian and Rio Tinto covering a 2,750-hectare license area. Following promising results, Rio Tinto has exercised its Stage 1 earn-in option, acquiring a 51% stake and committing to invest $7.5 million to potentially raise its ownership to 75% within three years.

As the global push for energy transition accelerates, demand for lithium, known as “white gold,” continues to surge. Used in EV batteries, smartphones, ceramics, and energy storage systems, lithium is a cornerstone of the green economy. Rwanda’s entry into this market could create a new chapter for its mining sector, which currently employs over 72,000 people and is largely driven by tin, tungsten, and tantalum.

A full technical review is in progress, with a detailed work plan expected by the end of 2025. If momentum continues, Rwanda could soon find itself on the global map as a reliable, strategic source of clean energy minerals.

This lithium breakthrough follows a growing trend across Africa, where nations like Zimbabwe and Namibia are ramping up policies to capitalize on their mineral wealth, reshaping the continent’s role in the global energy transition.

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