11 November 2026
Botswana has discovered significant deposits of rare minerals near Shakawe in the North-West District, marking a major step toward economic diversification.
Mining firm Tsodilo Resources confirmed that drilling at its Gcwihaba Metals project revealed a massive mineral system. The deposit contains all 15 rare earth elements listed as critical minerals by the US Geological Survey, along with copper, cobalt, nickel, vanadium, and silver.
The minerals sit between 20 and 50 metres beneath the sand, making them accessible for future extraction. Initial testing showed mineral concentrations of up to 1.49% total rare earth oxides.
Estimates suggest the targeted site holds between 81 and 97 million tonnes of ore.
Local and regional institutions, including the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI) and the University of Cape Town, are studying the samples. A 15,000-metre drilling programme is planned to define the full size of the resource.
These critical minerals power modern technology, including electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defense electronics. While the project remains in its early stages, the discovery offers the promise of job creation and industrial growth in Botswana beyond traditional diamond mining.
Source: Okavango News 24/7
