Lindian Stocks 125,000 Tonnes of Malawian Rare Earths Ore
Lindian Resources has stockpiled 125,000 tonnes of ore in Malawi. First monazite concentrate production is targeted for the end of the year.
Key points
- Lindian has stockpiled 125,000 tonnes of ore at its Kangankunde project in Malawi ahead of schedule.
- First monazite concentrate production is targeted for the end of the year, with commissioning expected next month.
- The project employs over 3,000 people, with locals comprising more than 85 per cent of the direct workforce.
Lindian Resources has stockpiled 125,000 tonnes of ore at its Kangankunde project in Malawi. This stockpile sits on the run-of-mine pad ahead of schedule. The company reports this in a note to The West Australian. Mining operations are currently running around the clock at the stage one pit.
Drill-and-blast activities and ore haulage continue to build momentum. The goal is final commissioning and first monazite concentrate production. This milestone remains firmly on track for the end of the year. The stockpile strategy aims to de-risk the plant start-up phase.
Malawian minister inspects site progress
Malawi’s Minister of Mining, Thoko Tembo, recently visited the site. She inspected the rapidly advancing operation. During the visit, she officially initiated the mine’s 14th production blast. The government expects more than just revenue from this project.
Locals make up more than 85 per cent of Lindian’s direct workforce. Site activity has swelled the broader construction workforce to more than 3,000 people. The overwhelming majority of these workers are Malawian nationals. This highlights the mine's importance for local jobs and skills development.
Plant construction and infrastructure advance
Processing plant construction is progressing night and day. Crews are focused on final mechanical installation and piping. Electrical works and instrumentation are also underway. Bulk earthworks for the tailings storage facility are complete.
The 33-kilovolt power infrastructure is substantially advanced. This is a critical step for commissioning next month. Lindian is transforming into a wholly integrated rare earths producer. The company holds a strategic interest in the SARECO facility in Kazakhstan.
Ore grade supports initial feed
Kangankunde hosts a resource of 261 million tonnes. This grades 2.19 per cent total rare earth oxides. A high-grade core of 26 million tonnes grades 3.7 per cent. This richer material will provide the initial feed for the stage one process plant.
Lindian has partnered with French expert Carester. They are developing an oxide separation facility in Kazakhstan. This includes a binding offtake agreement for heavy rare earth products. The countdown to first concentrate is on.
