Namibia takes control of its resources as it bans the export of unprocessed vital mineral

• Namibia's government prohibits the export of unprocessed lithium, and other rare earth minerals to capitalize on the rising demand for renewable energy technology metals. 
• The move aligns with Namibia's aim to become a major player in the battery metals market as global interest in renewable energy sources grows. 
• The decision follows similar actions by Zimbabwe and reflects a trend toward promoting local production of battery-grade minerals and reducing reliance on exports.

The government of Namibia said on Thursday that it has barred the export of unprocessed lithium and other vital minerals in an effort to capitalize on the rising demand for metals used in renewable energy technology worldwide.