Zimbabwe’s rich lithium reserves have sparked a foreign investment boom, particularly from China. While the government, eager to attract investments, helps foreign mining companies secure access to 'the white gold', artisanal miners are sidelined. A ban on unprocessed lithium exports, intended to boost domestic processing, has instead benefited political elites and marginalised local communities even further. To foster inclusive growth, the government should formalise artisanal mining and strengthen regional cooperation.