Blencowe Resources PLC (LSE:BRES) announced the start of an Airborne Electro-Magnetic (AEM) survey over its recently acquired Akelikongo nickel project in Uganda.
The mineral explorer and developer partnered with SkyTEM Surveys Aps to undertake the high definition AEM survey over several prospective areas. The survey programme is expected to run for two weeks and will consist of approximately 3,200-line kilometres of survey to be flown by helicopter.
It is expected to provide significant additional information to assist Blencowe in targeting both extensions to the existing defined mineralised lenses and better define targets identified by previous owners Rio Tinto PLC (LSE:RIO) and Sipa Resources Ltd.
"We are delighted to commence work on the Akelikongo nickel project so soon after picking up this asset in the first quarter 2022,” said executive chairman Cameron Pearce.
“This AEM work being conducted will highlight further areas of interest that our experienced team of geologists will then consider for a further drilling programme expected in 3Q 2022."
The company highlighted the increasing demand for nickel now and in the future.
“Nickel is a key input metal to lithium-ion batteries and as a result it will likely remain in high demand for a long period ahead, and the current exceptional prices for nickel reflect that demand, as well as potential shortages that might emerge as a result of Russia, one of the worlds' largest nickel producers, involved in a protracted war and resultant sanctions,” said Pearce.