Namibia graphite mine
A dormant graphite mine in Namibia is poised for a major comeback, reignited by the global race for battery materials. Canadian firm Northern Graphite plans to restart the Okanjande mine by late next year, thanks to a pivotal partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Al Obeikan Group. The mine will supply 50,000 tons of graphite concentrate to a new $200 million battery anode plant in Saudi Arabia annually. The project will bring significant investment and 200-300 jobs to Namibia, including upgrades such as a new tailings dam and a solar power facility. Yet the most advanced processing will take place in Saudi Arabia, where cheaper power, abundant water, and industrial infrastructure make production more viable. While the restart represents an economic win for Namibia, it underscores the infrastructure challenges facing mineral-rich nations across Africa.
African Business