Chilwa Minerals has reported impressive high-grade heavy mineral sand assay results from its Mpyupyu Dune deposit in Malawi, confirming thicker and richer mineralisation than previously estimated. These findings pave the way for an upcoming scoping study and resource upgrades.
- Initial assays from 111 sonic drill holes at Mpyupyu Dune show high-grade heavy mineral sands
- Mpyupyu deposit holds an inferred resource of 19.9Mt at 4.2% total heavy minerals (THM)
- Dune portion of the deposit contains 3.5Mt at 7.1% THM, significantly higher grade
- TZMI appointed to manage flow sheet studies and lead scoping study for the project
- Advanced sonic drilling improves sample quality and resource confidence
Strong Assay Results Confirm High-Grade Mineralisation
Chilwa Minerals Limited (ASX: CHW) has announced encouraging assay results from its ongoing sonic drilling program at the Mpyupyu Dune deposit, part of its broader Lake Chilwa Critical Minerals Project in Malawi. The initial batch of assays, covering 111 drill holes and 867 metres of drilling, reveals notably high total heavy mineral (THM) grades, with some intervals exceeding 40% THM. These results not only confirm the presence of thick mineralised zones but also suggest a higher grade than historic estimates based on earlier aircore drilling.
Resource Context and Geological Insights
The Mpyupyu deposit currently carries an inferred mineral resource estimate of 19.9 million tonnes at 4.2% THM, with the dune component alone accounting for 3.5 million tonnes at a more robust 7.1% THM. The mineralisation is concentrated in two sub-parallel lobate strandlines, historically known as the Mpyupyu Dunes, which strike east-west. The sonic drilling technique employed has enhanced core recovery and geological logging quality, enabling more reliable resource modelling and confidence in the deposit’s continuity.
Advancing Towards Scoping and Feasibility Studies
Following these promising assay results, Chilwa has engaged TZMI, a respected mineral sands consultancy, to manage mineralogical and metallurgical test work and to lead the forthcoming scoping study. This study will evaluate mining scenarios and economic viability for the Central Zone deposits, including Mpyupyu, Mposa, Bimbi, and Namasalima. The company anticipates completing resource updates and scoping study outcomes within 2025, with the potential to progress directly to feasibility studies if results prove favourable.
Broader Exploration and Project Development
Chilwa’s exploration program is extensive, with sonic drilling also underway at other deposits such as Bimbi and the northern shore targets. The company benefits from faster assay turnaround times at its primary laboratory in South Africa, enabling timely updates to resource estimates. The improved drilling and sampling protocols, combined with rigorous quality control measures, underpin the company’s confidence in advancing the project towards development.
Strategic Implications for Chilwa Minerals
These assay results reinforce Chilwa’s position in the mineral sands sector, highlighting the potential for a significant, high-grade resource in Malawi. The project’s location, combined with the quality of mineralisation and ongoing technical studies, positions Chilwa well to attract further investment and partnerships. However, the ultimate economic viability will depend on the outcomes of the scoping and feasibility studies, as well as prevailing market conditions for heavy mineral sands.
Bottom Line?
Chilwa’s high-grade Mpyupyu assays mark a pivotal step, but the market awaits scoping study results to gauge true project potential.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming scoping study impact Chilwa’s project valuation and development timeline?
- What are the expected capital and operational costs associated with mining the Mpyupyu Dune deposit?
- How might global heavy mineral sands market dynamics influence Chilwa’s project economics?