Namibia, Africa’s largest uranium producer, has announced the discovery of a new high-grade critical mineral site, reinforcing its growing importance in the continent’s mining sector.
The announcement came after Australian-listed Askari Metals (ASX: AS2) reported that Phase 1 trenching at its 100%-owned Uis Project confirmed extensive polymetallic mineralisation, including high-grade tin, lithium, tantalum, and rubidium.
These minerals, which are crucial for electronics, batteries, and renewable energy technologies, enhance the strategic significance of the Uis Project. In particular, Phase 1 trenching revealed peak assay results of 8,340 ppm tin, 0.57% lithium oxide, 299 ppm tantalum, and 2,380 ppm rubidium.
Furthermore, lithium grades exceeded commonly used cut-off thresholds for spodumene pegmatites, highlighting the site’s exceptional potential.
Business Insider Africa reported that the findings follow a 2.2-kilometre pegmatite trend, indicating strong possibilities for resource definition and future mining development. Consequently, the discovery positions Namibia as a key potential supplier in the global critical minerals market, complementing its already established outputs of uranium, diamonds, and base metals.
Moreover, with tin prices currently around US$46,000 per ton and peaking at US$57,000 per ton, the project could deliver substantial export revenues, attract foreign investment, and create employment opportunities.
Executive Director Gino D’Anna also noted that the project’s proximity to the operating Uis tin mine provides logistical advantages and untapped potential across multiple pegmatite targets. He added, “The Uis Project is shaping up to be a major strategic asset, offering substantial economic upside.”
As global demand for lithium, tantalum, and other critical metals continues to rise, Namibia’s Uis Project highlights the country’s capacity to strengthen its role in the international technology and green energy supply chain. Ultimately, this discovery not only boosts the nation’s economic prospects but also cements its position as an emerging hub for critical minerals in Africa.
