Officials this week revealed that KoBold Metals, a
US-based mining firm supported by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, had been given
seven permits to explore for lithium in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
A 4,500-square-kilometre area in Manono, which is
already home to one of the greatest lithium reserves in the world, is covered
by the permits. About 70% of the world's cobalt comes from Congo, which is
establishing itself as a major player in the global clean energy revolution.
Lithium is essential for renewable energy storage and electric vehicle
batteries.
According to KoBold, which employs AI-powered
exploration technologies, geological surveys will start right away. At Kolwezi
in southern Congo, the corporation is already working on the biggest
cobalt-copper project in the world.
By 2035, the demand for lithium is anticipated to have
quadrupled, and Congo aims to become a significant producer by diversifying
beyond cobalt. However, activists caution that in a nation long afflicted by
resource-driven conflict and corruption, new mining endeavours must guarantee
openness, benefits to the community, and environmental protections.
According to officials, the action might help Congo
draw in more capital and solidify its place in the world's green economy.
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