Lindian Resources Ltd (ASX:LIN, OTC:LINIF) has awarded all major non-process infrastructure (NPI) contracts for its Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi, with construction now progressing across multiple work packages. All NPI scopes fall within the capital parameters of the Stage 1 feasibility study and are integrated into the broader project execution plan alongside early works and mobilisation of the owner-operator mining fleet.
All major NPI contracts awarded, covering the:
- Mining workshop
- Administration building
- Fuel farm & explosives magazine
- Power infrastructure
- Tailings storage facility
- Site security.
The company continues to target first production in late 2026.
“Awarding all NPI contracts is a major step forward in positioning Kangankunde for construction and commissioning," Lindian executive director Zac Komur said.
"These packages provide the essential infrastructure required for mining, processing and site operations. The scopes have been tightly integrated into our schedule, and their award further strengthens our commitment to achieving first commercial production in 2026. With NPI now locked in, the project continues to build strong momentum as we move toward awarding the process plant design-and-construct contract.”
Power supply and grid connection
The power supply contract covers development of a new power line corridor in cooperation with national utility ESCOM.
Overview of the planned power line corridor, which will supply Kangankunde (marked in blue).
Works include corridor clearing, foundations, pole installation, line stringing, transformer installation and integration into Kangankunde’s distribution network.
The initial 3 MW supply is designed to meet early-stage operational needs and will be supported by solar generation and back-up systems for critical equipment. Excavation and pole installation are scheduled to begin on December 15, 2025, with timelines aligned to the overall construction and commissioning schedule.
Mobile workshop and mining fleet support
A mobile workshop facility is being established to support Lindian’s Komatsu owner-operator mining fleet and onsite ancillary equipment.
The workshop will provide full maintenance and servicing capability and will be fitted with CCTV to maintain equipment availability. Earthworks for the facility are 60% complete.
3D rendered illustration of the mining workshop facility.
Construction is scheduled to begin on December 20, 2025, coinciding with staged delivery of the mining fleet, which will start arriving in December 2025 with final units due by mid-January 2026.
Administration hub and site services
The main administration building will function as the central hub for construction and production activities. The contract includes civil foundations, construction, fit-out and supporting services.
Once complete, the building will house management, technical, health, safety and environment, information technology and consulting personnel, as well as a site clinic and logistics functions. Civil works and foundation activities are already in progress to ensure readiness ahead of full-scale operations.
Explosives magazine and blasting logistics
Development of the explosives magazine is advancing, with works covering storage for bulk explosives and accessories, fencing, CCTV and compliance with regulatory standards.
The facility will enable secure early storage of blasting consumables to support the mining schedule.
3D rendered illustration of the explosives magazine.
Road access has been established, with additional roadworks underway. Construction has begun on modular units that will form the base of the magazine infrastructure.
Perimeter security and access control
Lindian is constructing a 9-kilometre perimeter fence to manage access and ensure safety as site activity ramps up.
Procurement of fencing materials is underway, and installation will occur in phases to match construction sequencing.
3D rendered illustration of the perimeter fencing.
Target dates have been set for procurement, initial installation and full completion, with updates to be made as project demands evolve and more work fronts open across the site.
Fuel farm and operational readiness
A fuel farm is being developed to support both construction and ongoing mining operations.
The facility includes two 40,000-litre storage tanks, fuel dispensing and transfer systems, CCTV, bunding and fire suppression.
Combined, the NPI packages — covering power, workshop, administration, explosives, fencing and fuel — are described by the company as essential foundations for mining, processing and site operations.