Megamillions, a leading battery producer based in South Africa, has emphasized the importance of skills development for Zambia to unlock its potential in electric car battery production.
Naichan Nacker, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Megamillions, highlighted the significant gap in expertise between Africa and established battery manufacturers like CATL in China, which boasts a workforce of over 1000 PhD holders specializing in battery technology.
Nacker stressed the critical need for Zambia to invest in building a skilled workforce capable of copper foil fabrication, cabling, and other essential skills essential for electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing.
He emphasized that copper foil, a crucial component in EV batteries with no viable substitute, positions Zambia favorably for large-scale production.
However, Nacker cautioned that both Zambia and Congo still have a considerable distance to go before achieving self-sufficiency in EV battery production.
In the interim, they will need to focus on producing components like batteries to meet immediate demand.
In conclusion, while the potential for Zambia and Congo to become major players in the EV battery market exists, substantial investment in skills development and infrastructure is essential to overcome current challenges and seize opportunities in this rapidly growing industry.
