Mali Eyes Global Lithium Role with Inauguration of Bougouni Mine

West Africa WeeklyNovember 4, 20251 Mins read28

On Monday, November 3, 2025, Mali’s transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, officially inaugurated the Bougouni Lithium Project, marking the country’s second major lithium mining operation. The ceremony, which took place in the Bougouni region, roughly 180 kilometres south of the capital Bamako, signalled a step forward in Mali’s strategy to position itself in the global supply chain for electric-vehicle battery materials.

The mine, operated by Les Mines de Lithium de Bougouni SA (LMLB SA), is a joint venture between the Malian government (35 % equity) and two major overseas partners: Kodal Minerals PLC (49 %) and China’s Hainan Mining Co. Ltd. (the remaining share).

Phase 1 of the project required an investment of approximately USD 65 million, and the results have already been yielded. The processing plant commenced first production in February 2025 with a targeted annual output of 125,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate at an average grade of 5.5 % Li₂O, a key raw material used in lithium-ion batteries.

President Goïta described the inauguration as a cornerstone of Mali’s determination to turn its natural wealth into tangible social and industrial progress. He emphasised that his government aims for Mali’s mineral resources to serve as drivers of transformation, not mere extraction.

Officials say the project already employs roughly 650 workers, with 95 % of the workforce drawn from Mali. A second phase scheduled for 2028 aims to double output to around 230,000 tonnes annually.

Beyond the economics, the Bougouni mine forms a key piece of Mali’s broader ambition to diversify its mineral-export base. With a first lithium mine already operating at Goulamina, the new facility strengthens Mali’s claim to be a leading African supplier of critical minerals needed for the green-energy transition.

However, concerns remain parallel to the celebration. The mining region lies within a country facing serious security challenges, including insurgent violence and logistical risks. Reports from the site in recent months noted a security guard killed during an attack and export-permit delays that constrain full production ramp-up.

As the new mine comes online, Mali’s government will be judged on whether it can translate the promise of resource wealth into broader social benefit, and whether stricter governance and community inclusion accompany its push into the high-stakes world of critical minerals.