DRC Certifies Its First Manono Lithium Cargo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has certified the first export lots of lithium concentrate produced by Manono Lithium, bringing the country’s newest strategic mineral trade under formal state quality and traceability controls.

The Centre of Expertise, Evaluation and Certification of Mineral Substances, known as CEEC, completed the certification on July 22, 2026, in Tanganyika province.

Provincial Governor Christian Kitungwa Muteba attended the operation before an officially inaugurated vessel carrying the cargo departed Mutowa port in Kalemie for Kigoma, Tanzania.

From Kigoma, the material is expected to continue through Tanzania toward international markets.

The departure gives the DRC a highly visible entry into the global lithium supply chain, adding another battery mineral to a mining sector already known for its cobalt and copper.

However, the exact milestone needs to be stated carefully.

Earlier trial shipments reportedly began in June. The July 22 event therefore represents the first cargo formally certified by the CEEC and the official launch of the lake-export corridor, not necessarily the first movement of Manono lithium out of the country.

LePoint reported the certification, while Actualite.cd documented the vessel ceremony and its route from Kalemie to Kigoma.

Why CEEC certification?

Before mineral products are exported, the CEEC is responsible for assessing their origin, characteristics, quality and compliance with Congolese export requirements.