The 2023 Lithium & Battery Minerals Conference that concluded in the City of Kings, Bulawayo, was an opportunity for professionals in the mining industry, stakeholders, and suppliers to convene and discuss the latest advancements in the lithium and battery minerals industry.
The conference was held on 1 November 2023, at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, in Bulawayo.
Event conveners Zimbabwe School of Mines said on their website that “due to the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions, lithium has become an indispensable component in the production of batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.”
The conference featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, as well as an exhibition hall showcasing the latest innovations and technologies in lithium production and usage. The theme of the conference was “Powering Zimbabwe’s Future: Exploring Opportunities and Challenges for Sustainable Development in Lithium and Battery Minerals Industry”.
As the biggest gathering of the global battery raw materials community, the agenda covered key sub-themes such as the exploration and mining of lithium, climate change and decarbonizing economies, extraction and processing of lithium. Other topics were lithium-ion energy storage technology, lithium mining: economics and marketing, project financing and investment in the lithium sector and environmental impact of lithium mining.
Players in the respective sectors did not miss the unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders and experts and learn about the latest trends and innovations.
The keynote address was delivered by Honourable Zhemu Soda, Minister of Mines and Mining Development. Other key speakers at the conference included Pfungwa Kunaka, Permanent Secretary of MMMD and Board Chair Zimbabwe School of Mines (Welcome and Opening Address) and Dr Isaac Kwesu, Chief Executive Officer at the Chamber of Mines (Overview of Lithium and Battery Minerals mining in Zimbabwe).
The jam-packed agenda covered key topics for all those involved in the production, procurement and investment in battery raw materials. Delegates accessed key insights and strengthened relationships with their peers.
The conference also discussed the environmental, social, and economic impacts of lithium and battery mineral production and use. Additionally, the conference explored opportunities for value addition and downstream processing of lithium and battery minerals.
Text by Martin Chemhere