Fast-Tracking a Strategic Mineral
On October 23, 2025, Metals One and Evolution Energy Minerals announced that first ore production at the Chilalo Graphite Project in southern Tanzania has been rescheduled for October 2027, nearly a year ahead of the original timeline. The decision follows stronger-than-expected financing commitments and improved logistics coordination with the port of Mtwara, underscoring Tanzania’s growing capacity to fast-track high-value critical mineral projects.
Strengthening Tanzania’s Battery Supply Role
The Chilalo project—one of East Africa’s most advanced graphite ventures—positions Tanzania as a key player in the global battery supply chain, particularly for anode material used in electric vehicles. Officials report that recent infrastructure upgrades and stable regulatory conditions have boosted investor confidence, allowing for accelerated project execution and early procurement of processing equipment. Once operational, Chilalo could deliver over 50,000 tonnes per year of high-purity graphite concentrate.
A Signal for Regional Competitiveness
Tanzania’s graphite acceleration sends a clear signal to investors and neighboring countries: Africa’s battery mineral projects are maturing faster and more strategically. As demand for natural graphite intensifies amid supply risks in China, projects like Chilalo exemplify the continent’s potential to provide reliable alternatives. For Tanzania, the move aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of building a modern, value-added mining economy that anchors national growth in global clean-energy transitions.