Kodal Starts Lithium Exports from Bougouni Project in Mali

Kodal Minerals, a leading West African mineral exploration and development company, has started exporting spodumene concentrate from its Bougouni lithium project in Mali. This marks a key milestone as the project begins supplying lithium, a vital material for batteries.

First Export Shipment and Future Plans for Bougouni Lithium

Kodal’s Bougouni project sits about 180 kilometers south of Mali’s capital, Bamako, in the Birimian geological formation. The project produced its first lithium oxide (Li₂O) spodumene concentrate earlier this year after the Dense Media Separation (DMS) plant became operational. Kodal now plans to export an initial 30,000 tonnes (t) of spodumene concentrate from the project’s stockpile. The shipment will move to the port of San Pedro in Côte d’Ivoire and take about four to six weeks.

Exporting spodumene concentrate represents a major step for Kodal. The company aims to maintain a steady export flow and transport the full 45,000t stockpile to San Pedro. This strategy secures a reliable lithium supply for global battery markets.

Kodal’s Strategic Vision for the Bougouni Lithium Project

The Bougouni project covers 350km² and stands as a core asset for Kodal Minerals. Les Mines de Lithium de Bougouni (LMLB), a Kodal Mining UK subsidiary, operates the project, and Kodal holds a 49% stake. CEO Bernard Aylward highlights that the DMS plant enables smooth, continuous exports.

Stage two will feature a flotation plant starting in 2028. The plant will produce an estimated 230,000 tonnes of Li₂O per year. This expansion strengthens Bougouni’s role in the global lithium supply chain, supporting electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage growth.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The start of exports from Bougouni highlights West Africa’s rising influence in the global lithium market. Growing EV demand will push lithium consumption higher, benefiting Kodal Minerals. With the upcoming flotation plant, Bougouni will play a key role in meeting worldwide lithium needs and shaping the battery materials sector.