Hassan Magulumali
Tanzania is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most strategic graphite producers as global demand for battery minerals continues to rise alongside the transition to clean energy and electric vehicles.
In a major step for the country’s mining sector, the Government of Tanzania and Lindi Jumbo Limited signed a landmark joint venture agreement for a large-scale graphite mining project in Ruangwa District, Lindi Region. The project is valued at more than USD 82 million and is expected to significantly boost Tanzania’s role in the global supply chain for battery materials.
According to government officials, the project is projected to produce approximately 40,000 tonnes of graphite annually over a lifespan of more than 24 years. The investment is also expected to create over 300 employment opportunities while contributing to local economic growth and industrial development.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Tanzania’s Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde said the country is building a globally competitive graphite industry through strategic leadership, investor-friendly policies, and responsible management of natural resources under the administration of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
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Mavunde noted that Tanzania’s mining sector continues to attract growing international interest as investors seek reliable sources of critical minerals needed for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies.
Currently ranked among the world’s top graphite-producing countries, Tanzania is accelerating development in the sector with around 30 licensed medium and large-scale graphite projects across the country. Industry experts say the expansion positions Tanzania as an increasingly important player in the global clean energy economy.
Graphite is considered one of the key minerals used in lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and a wide range of modern technologies. As global manufacturers push toward cleaner energy solutions, demand for graphite is expected to increase significantly over the coming decades.
Government officials say the new investment demonstrates growing confidence in Tanzania’s economic environment and mining policies. Authorities also emphasized that the country remains focused on ensuring mineral resources contribute to long-term national development through job creation, technology transfer, infrastructure growth, and increased government revenue.
The Lindi graphite project is expected to further strengthen Tanzania’s position as a major supplier of strategic minerals at a time when countries worldwide are competing to secure critical resources for the future global energy transition.
