Comprehensive pact combines research, skills transfer, and lithium/graphite processing innovation
By Our Reporter, Ethical Business
NAIROBI – In a landmark move for Kenya’s mining sector, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Marula Mining PLC (AQUIS: MARU) have formalised a five-year Collaborative Research and Academic Agreement. The partnership, announced this week, establishes a framework for joint research, skills development, and technological innovation aimed at maximising value from Kenya’s mineral resources – particularly critical battery metals like lithium and graphite.
Beyond Research: Building Holistic Capacity
The agreement encompasses:
- Joint R&D in mining, mineral processing, and value addition
- Professional skills enhancement through training exchanges and curriculum development
- Technology transfer for lithium/graphite purification and battery material production
- Academic exchanges for staff and students
Marula CEO Jason Brewer emphasised the strategic ambition:
“Our ambitions extend beyond conventional mining into producing high-value refined products for electric vehicles. Partnering with JKUAT positions Kenya at the forefront of mineral research in critical metals.”
JKUAT Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi highlighted the partnership’s practical impact:
“We’ll undertake innovative research in mineral processing and value addition, developing technologies to refine raw materials into battery components. This directly supports Kenya’s industrialisation and global sustainability goals.”
Focus on Battery Metals Revolution
Specific initiatives include:
- Refining technologies for high-purity lithium and graphite
- Metallurgical process innovation
- Sustainable extraction methods for EV supply chains
Continental Imperative
The collaboration addresses Africa’s urgent need to capture greater mineral value. As highlighted by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the continent holds 30% of global mineral reserves but minimal processing capacity. Kenya’s critical minerals potential aligns with the African Development Bank (AfDB)’s strategy for resource-based industrialisation.
What This Means
(Stakeholder implications)
✅ Entrepreneurs: Opportunities in mineral refining tech, battery component manufacturing, and sustainable mining services.
✅ Policymakers: Demonstrates the need for R&D tax incentives and streamlined regulations, as outlined in Kenya’s Mining Ministry Strategic Plan.
✅ Educators: Curriculum development in mineral processing creates new vocational training pathways.
