Lindian Resources Ltd (ASX:LIN) is making solid progress with a 12,500-metre drill program at the globally significant Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi, with first assays due shortly.
The company has so far drilled 19 holes for 3,320 metres on the Kangankunde hilltop, consisting of 17 reverse circulation (RC) holes for 2,895 metres and 425 metres of diamond core.
Two additional deep drill holes are planned from drill pads near the base of the hill and are designed to allow drilling to continue during the wet season.
Phase 1 drill program hole location and planned drill traces (red) and Phase 2 (purple).
“Approximately 25% of the Phase 1 program is completed and advancing with three rigs operating. Drilling will continue through the wet season, helping advance mine development activities more rapidly,” Lindian’s chief executive officer Alistair Stephens said.
Samples from drill hole 22KKRC001 are being assayed at the ALS geochemistry laboratory in Perth, while drill samples collected from all other holes are in various stages of sampling, preparation and transportation.
Cutting and sampling of core.
Positive engagement
The project continues to receive the strong support of the Malawi Government and recently received visits from Minister of Mining Dr Albert Mbawala, principal secretary of Mining Dr Joseph Mkandawire, director of Mining Burnett Msika, director of the Geological Survey Dr Kondwane Dominika, and other mines department personnel and community members.
CEO Stephens has also conducted a further eight meetings with community leaders and committees, including chief Chanthunya of the Traditional Senior Authority Area, chief Makolela of the Kangankunde village area, the full Balaka Council and local area Member of Parliament Bertha Ndebele.
The meetings discussed mine development technical programs leading to development of a mining and processing operation, and importantly, the company's commitment to its community engagement plan, including environmental management, social support programs, jobs and training opportunities, and indirect business support opportunities.
“Our $16 million placement and the company’s commitment to deploying significant capital on mine development has greatly increased confidence in-country,” Stephens said.
“Of equal importance is our ongoing government and community relations work where we are regularly consulting with groups on Lindian’s mine development. I will be in Malawi later this week to continue our dialogue with both government and community and to ensure activities at Kangankunde remain on track,” he added.
Shareholder briefing
Lindian chairman Asimwe Kabunga and Stephens will brief shareholders on the progress of the mine development drilling program, community and government relations and the forward works plan on December 13 at 11.00am AEST.
Shareholders can submit questions prior to or during the briefing. Click here to register for the meeting.