The Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project in Malawi has shown positive results following the completion of mining trials. Part of the Pilot Mining and Land Rehabilitation Program, the trials confirmed that the soft, friable Kasiya ore can be efficiently mined.
Developed by mining company Sovereign Metals Limited, the Kasiya Project represents the world’s largest natural rutile deposit. The pilot program featured the excavation of a test pit using conventional dry mining techniques, covering an area of 120m by 110m. The pit was mined to a depth of 20m, with mined materials now set to be graded. Backfilling of the test pit is expected to conclude in December 2024.
Sovereign Metals’ Managing Director and CEO Frank Eagar stated that the company is “pleased with the results of the mining trials at the test pit and now look forward to the rehabilitation demonstration stage, with backfilling of the pit already underway. Our findings from this pilot phase are constantly improving our understanding of Kasiya and how to optimize operations at this genuine tier 1 project.
Representing part of the mining trials, the company constructed several demonstration pits to showcase the potential for land rehabilitation. The results of the demonstrations will enable Sovereign Metals to advance to the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, representing the next step in the development of the mine.
