Lindian Resources has accelerated development at its Kangankunde Rare Earths Project, securing full ownership and awarding key construction contracts, while attracting strategic international attention.
- Awarded Design & Construct contract for Stage 1 processing plant to Obsideo Engineering
- Mobilised Komatsu mining fleet and commenced workforce accommodation construction
- Achieved 100% ownership of Kangankunde Rare Earths Project
- Hosted senior US government delegation highlighting strategic importance
- Positive metallurgical testwork confirms low-radiation rare earth concentrate processing
Project Milestones and Construction Progress
Lindian Resources Limited (ASX – LIN) has reported significant progress during the December 2025 quarter at its flagship Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi. The company awarded the Design and Construct contract for the Stage 1 processing plant to Obsideo Engineering Pty Ltd, marking a pivotal step from early works to full-scale construction. This contract encompasses engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning, with detailed engineering and site integration well underway.
Alongside the processing plant, Lindian mobilised its owner-operated Komatsu mining fleet, with initial equipment delivered from South Africa and assembly and operator training progressing. The company also commenced construction of the Tipume workforce accommodation camp, designed to house up to 90 personnel, supporting the growing onsite workforce and operational ramp-up.
Strategic Ownership and Infrastructure Development
In a strategic move, Lindian completed the early acquisition of the remaining 33% interest in Kangankunde, increasing its ownership to 100%. This consolidation grants Lindian full legal and operational control, simplifying corporate structure and aligning with the accelerated development timeline targeting first production in late Q4 2026.
Major non-process infrastructure contracts were awarded during the quarter, covering essential facilities such as the mining workshop, administration building, fuel farm, explosives magazine, power infrastructure, tailings storage, and site security. These contracts reduce execution risk and ensure alignment with the processing plant schedule.
International Engagement and Metallurgical Advances
Lindian hosted a senior United States Government delegation led by Deputy Assistant Secretary Nicholas Checker, underscoring Kangankunde's growing recognition as a strategically important rare earths project. Discussions focused on the critical role of rare earth elements in global energy transition and national security, reflecting heightened international interest in secure supply chains.
On the technical front, positive metallurgical testwork by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) confirmed that Kangankunde’s monazite concentrate can be processed using conventional methods to produce a high-grade, ultra-low radiation mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC). This outcome simplifies downstream processing, reduces costs, and enhances market acceptance.
Exploration and Corporate Developments
Exploration drilling commenced at the high-grade North Knoll prospect near the main deposit, aiming to define additional high-grade feed options for Stage 1 production. Assay results are expected in Q2 2026, potentially adding value to the project’s resource base.
Corporate appointments during the quarter included the addition of a Processing Manager and HR Manager to support construction and operational readiness. However, the company also announced the resignation of its Chief Financial Officer for personal reasons, a development to watch as Lindian scales up.
Financially, Lindian ended the quarter with a robust cash position of A$56.96 million, reflecting proceeds from option exercises and ongoing capital expenditure focused on construction and equipment acquisition.
Bottom Line?
With full ownership secured and construction accelerating, Lindian is poised to become a key player in the global rare earths market, but upcoming exploration results and leadership changes warrant close attention.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming assay results from North Knoll influence Kangankunde’s resource estimates and mine planning?
- What are the implications of the CFO resignation on Lindian’s financial strategy and investor confidence?
- Which offtake partners will Lindian secure to capitalise on its low-radiation rare earth concentrate advantage?