I'm not confident the company will end up downstream processing...

I'm not confident the company will end up downstream processing in Mali/Africa but think the more likely option is a midstream product like lithium salts (35% LiO). Have a look at what PLS is doing with Calix - waste is removed/remain at the mine site rather than being transported half away around the world. Much lower carbon intensity, higher margin product, reduced transportation costs!

Still a way to go to be proven at scale but hopefully by the time we are looking at stage 2 and 3/4/5 it will a feasible option.

Edit - Red Baron beat me to it and in more detail!