After the suspension of the activities of several mining companies in 2021, Burundi wants to reconnect with international investors. Through a new strategy, Bujumbura is betting on the exploration and processing of strategic minerals to accelerate the development of its mining sector.
A mining sector poised to expand
Five years after closing the door to several mining operators, Burundi is seeking to make its mineral resources a driver of economic growth. The government now wants to attract new foreign partners in order to explore and develop its natural resources.
At the Africa Down Under conference, recently held in Australia, the Burundian Minister of Mining Resources, Hassan Kibeya, presented a roadmap intended to develop the entire mining value chain, from exploration to local processing.
“The Burundian mining sector is in its early stages and is beginning to emerge; we believe the time has come to open it fully to the world. We are actively opening our doors to various partners, particularly Western investors,” the minister said, as reported by S&P Global.
Critical minerals at the heart of ambitions
Burundi wishes to benefit from the strong global demand for strategic minerals. The country notably has significant potential in nickel, as well as resources in lithium and rare earths, substances that have become essential for the energy transition.
These minerals are now sought after for the manufacture of electric batteries, clean vehicles and a wide range of technological equipment. Their strategic importance attracts the attention of investors looking for new sources of supply.
Attracting capital and promoting local processing
To successfully achieve this revival, Burundi will have to meet several challenges, including improving the business climate, developing infrastructure and strengthening mining governance.
The government also aims to go beyond the simple model of exporting raw minerals. Local processing is among the priorities in order to create more added value and economic benefits for the country.
A new place in the race for strategic minerals
With this announced opening, Burundi wants to join the broader African effort to make better use of natural resources while attracting responsible investment.
While the global energy transition increases demand for lithium, nickel and rare earths, Bujumbura intends to make its mining potential a driver of economic development.
Héritier Maila
View of Gitega, Burundi, on 11 January 2025. Photo: Edouard mhg / Wikimedia Commons, CC0 1.0. Context image; it does not show a lithium deposit.
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