Mali has reached a historic milestone with its first lithium exports from the Bougouni mine, operated by Kodal Minerals. This represents a decisive step toward diversifying its mining economy beyond gold.

A new chapter for the Malian mining sector

Mali has just entered the restricted circle of countries exporting lithium, a strategic metal at the heart of the global energy transition .

Kodal Minerals , in partnership with the Chinese group Hainan Mining , has officially started shipments of spodumene concentrate (containing lithium) from the Bougouni site , located in the south of the country.

This first cargo, estimated at 30,000 tonnes , will be transported by road to the port of San Pedro in Ivory Coast before being exported to China .

A strategic resource for Africa

The Bougouni project symbolizes Africa's rise in the critical minerals sector, particularly those used for electric batteries and green energy .

With a targeted capacity of 125,000 tonnes of concentrate exported each year , Mali hopes to take advantage of growing global demand.

According to the authorities, the revenues generated could stimulate national growth and strengthen local infrastructure , provided that transparent management of mining profits is ensured.

An opportunity to consolidate

For the Malian government, this first export illustrates the desire to diversify the national economy beyond gold, the country's historic resource.

Lithium, now nicknamed “Mali’s white gold” , could permanently transform the industrial landscape if it is exploited in an inclusive and sustainable manner.

Ivorian ports at the heart of regional competitiveness

These mining operations gave Côte d'Ivoire a decisive logistical advantage , consolidating its position among the major ports of West Africa.

Thanks to San Pedro and Abidjan , the country now has two maritime platforms capable of competing with Tema in Ghana or Dakar in Senegal .

The port of San Pedro, in particular, is establishing itself as the natural gateway for exporting Malian lithium , thanks to its modern infrastructure, its proximity to the mining areas of southern Mali and its rapidly expanding road corridor.