Africa / DRC-Zambia: a battery and vehicle industry to be set up soon
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (CEA) is urging African nations to capitalize on the opportunities arising from recent advancements in the global battery and electric vehicle industry. During a technical review meeting focused on the implementation of the Transboundary Economic Special Zone for the battery and electric vehicle industry, slated for establishment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia with support from the African Export-Import Bank, the CEA emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative.
Eunice Kamwendo, Director of the CEA’s Southern Africa sub-regional office, underscored the initiative’s benefits for socio-economic development and structural transformation.
By adding value to critical minerals used in electric vehicle manufacturing, attracting domestic and foreign investments, creating sustainable employment, and fostering technological advancement, this initiative is poised to drive significant economic growth.
The establishment of a joint special economic zone will facilitate manufacturing clusters, promote technological innovation, and bridge industry gaps, ultimately contributing to a more robust and diversified economic landscape across the continent.
The CEA highlighted the burgeoning demand for rechargeable batteries driven by digital devices and renewable energy solutions, presenting Africa with a unique opportunity to lead in clean energy development.
With strong political backing in the DRC and Zambia, as evidenced by the signing of a framework agreement in March 2023, this joint initiative represents a strategic step towards harnessing Africa’s vast potential in the battery and electric vehicle sector.
Neil Camara
