The challenges encountered in the SADC region are lack of infrastructure, limiting regulatory frameworks, environmental concerns, security issues and community relations. However, there remains strong and growing demand for minerals from this region.

There is also growing demand for battery minerals e.g. lithium, cobalt, manganese, graphite and copper. The governments of these respective countries are gradually making the necessary effort to improve regulatory environments in lieu of attracting foreign direct investments. There is a call for local mining industries to be developed with a view to create job opportunities for local communities.