Mutapa Energy to relocate 104 families for US$300m lithium plant

Mutapa Energy Resources is initiating a relocation program at the Sandawana Mine in Mberengwa to facilitate the construction of a US$300 million lithium concentrator. The project requires the relocation of 104 families and the exhumation of more than 52 graves located within the proposed plant footprint.

To support the move, the company is constructing four-roomed houses equipped with kitchens and ablution facilities, with an estimated cost of US$28,000 per unit. CEO Innocent Rukweza stated that the company aims to finalize the construction of these 104 homes by the end of September. The relocation plan also includes moving a primary school, a clinic, and a police station, as well as installing water reticulation, fencing, and upgrading local roads and power lines.

The lithium concentrator is currently targeted for commissioning in November 2027. In the interim, Sandawana is toll-processing ore at the Gwanda lithium plant.