Lindian Resources Ltd (ASX:LIN, OTC:LINIF) has taken significant steps towards advancing the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi, as the company moves into the execution phase by placing orders for crucial processing equipment. This includes key long-lead items such as the SAG mill, thickener and flocculation plant, shaking tables, and belt filters. By securing these critical plant packages, Lindian aims to enhance schedule certainty while ramping up construction activities across various fronts like earthworks, infrastructure, and site readiness.
The SAG mill is identified as the principal long-lead item on the critical path, with an estimated delivery timeframe of approximately 22 weeks. The thickener and flocculation plant package is expected within around 14 weeks, while shaking tables and belt filters are projected to be delivered in about 20 weeks, factoring in manufacturing, testing, and transportation timelines.
Executive Director Zac Komur emphasized the progress being made at the Kangankunde site, with over 550 workers engaged in multiple workfronts, achieving an impressive 200,000 lost-time-injury-free hours. This milestone reflects the strong culture and discipline being instilled at the project, signaling a shift towards full execution mode.
As construction activities intensify, Lindian is strategically deploying its owner-operator Komatsu fleet to maintain momentum and reduce dependence on third-party contractors. This equipment is being utilized for various tasks such as haul road development, platform formation, and Tailings Storage Facility earthworks, aligning with the company’s lower-capital execution strategy.
On-site developments are progressing rapidly, with bulk earthworks, access roads, and platform preparations advancing towards the main construction phase. Additionally, the construction of the Tipume accommodation camp, expected to accommodate 90 personnel, is nearing completion alongside administration buildings, a site medical clinic, and security facilities.
Looking ahead, Lindian is focused on meeting key milestones outlined in the master schedule. By February 2026, the company plans to commence process plant construction and mine stripping, followed by the first blast in April, grid power energization in July, and the target for first ore feed and concentrate production in November 2026.
March will mark a significant shift towards full construction execution, with activities such as early civil site establishment, process plant construction, mobilization for structural, mechanical, plateworks, and piping scopes set to commence. Other milestones include the completion and delivery of the workshop package, mobilization of key construction support equipment, initiation of perimeter fencing, and finalization of the explosives magazine package ahead of full drill-and-blast operations.
By adhering to the outlined milestones and focusing on safety, Lindian remains committed to delivering a high-quality rare earth project with precision and efficiency. The company’s dedication to schedule adherence, quality control, and safety measures positions Kangankunde as a promising venture in the rare earth sector.
