Challenges, Prospects and Strategic Pathways for Lithium-ion Battery Industry Development in Zambia: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This study was aimed at exploring challenges, prospects and pathways for establishing a lithium-ion battery (LIB) manufacturing industry in Zambia. As the global demand for lithium-ion batteries rises, driven by the transition to electric vehicles and other power requirements and renewable energy storage, the country's rich endowment of critical minerals strategically positions it as a significant player in the global battery value chain. Zambia’s geographical location in southern Africa also leverages its role in the regional supply network and aligns with the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC)’s integration goals. In addition, Zambia's increasing focus on green industrialization and value-added mineral processing presents a timely opportunity to develop a competitive lithium-ion battery sector that supports clean energy transitions across the region. Nevertheless, several structural and policy-related challenges such as inefficient extraction of battery-grade minerals, limited capacity for mineral processing and recycling, underdeveloped industrial infrastructure, inadequate policy frameworks, weak investment incentives, outdated mining legislation, and environmental sustainability concerns seem to have impeded progress in this critical sector. Therefore, in order to unlock the sector’s potential, the study used a systematic review strategy to screen and filter relevant information using keywords and headings from peer-reviewed journal papers, industry reports, conference proceedings, and financial and policy reports for a high-quality rigor and credibility. Independent reviewers assessed the selected articles to ensure consistency, clarity and relevance of the content while highlighting key recommendations such as upgrading energy and manufacturing infrastructure, modernizing industrial facilities, facilitating technological transfer, building technical skills, implementing targeted policy reforms, strengthening environmental regulations, and promoting a vertically integrated supply chain system. By addressing these challenges and leveraging its existing opportunities, Zambia can establish a robust lithium-ion battery manufacturing sector, driving industrial diversification, creating green jobs, and contributing meaningfully to both Africa’s economic transformation and the global transition to sustainable energy systems.