Ban on lithium ore exports squeezes presidential rivals

Ending raw mineral exports helps some mining companies and is also a weapon in the ZANU-PF succession fight

Mines Minister Polite Kambamura’s sudden ban on the export of raw minerals and lithium concentrates has a strong political rationale. There was no consultation with mining companies or other stakeholders. When it was announced on 24 February, ore trucks on their way to the border had to turn back.