Lindian Resources confirms Kangankunde Rare Earths Project remains on track for first production in late 2026, with concurrent progress across construction, mining, and operational readiness. The company is expanding its operational footprint internationally and strengthening its team to support the transition from construction to production.
- Kangankunde first production targeted for Q4 2026
- Mining ramp-up with ore stockpiling underway
- Process plant and infrastructure construction advancing
- Operational teams expanding across Malawi, Kazakhstan, Singapore, and Perth
- CFO resigns during probation; finance team transition ongoing
Kangankunde Project on Track for Q4 2026 Production
Lindian Resources Limited (ASX:LIN) is steadily pushing the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi toward its first production milestone, scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. The company is juggling construction, mining, and operational readiness simultaneously as it targets front-end commissioning to start in late October and practical completion by November.
Mining operations are ramping up with production drill-and-blast activities underway, and ore is now being mined and stockpiled in preparation for commissioning. This build-up of feedstock is critical to ensure a smooth transition from construction to full operations. The mining fleet is performing above budget expectations, and infrastructure such as haul roads and ROM pads are progressing well.
Construction Progress Accelerates Across Key Infrastructure
Construction on the process plant is gathering pace, with significant milestones reached in SAG mill rebar installation, thickener civil and structural works, and electrical infrastructure deployment. The tailings storage facility (TSF) is advancing strongly, with civil works moving toward completion by the end of October, aligning with commissioning schedules.
Power infrastructure has seen the completion of Phase 1 of the 33kV high-voltage overhead powerline, a crucial step toward energising the plant. Meanwhile, water infrastructure development is progressing with borehole completions and related works supporting operational needs. Security enhancements, including perimeter fencing installation, are also underway to safeguard the site as activity intensifies.
Operational Readiness and Team Expansion Across Multiple Regions
Operational readiness is accelerating in parallel with physical construction. Recruitment for key roles in metallurgy, plant operations, and site security is underway, alongside the development of standard operating procedures targeted for completion by October’s end. Lindian is expanding its operational footprint beyond Malawi, bolstering capabilities in Kazakhstan, Singapore, and Perth.
In Kazakhstan, the SARECO MREC Processing Facility is preparing for production with 25 experienced personnel transitioning to Lindian and plans to grow the team to approximately 75. Executive Director Zac Komur will relocate to Stepnogorsk to oversee commissioning and operations integration directly. This move underscores Lindian’s commitment to building a vertically integrated rare earths business.
Singapore’s office has appointed Ananda Bhaskar as Internal Sales Manager to lead international sales, marketing, and logistics, leveraging his extensive commodity trading background. Meanwhile, the Perth corporate office continues to strengthen with new appointments in health, safety, environment, IT, finance, and project controls. However, the company also announced the resignation of CFO Derek Bideshi during his probationary period, with General Manager – Finance Rajesh Agrawal stepping up to manage the finance team.
Funding and Future Expansion Plans
Lindian remains fully funded for the Stage 1 development of Kangankunde following a recent A$100 million capital raising. The company is concurrently advancing a Stage 2 Definitive Feasibility Study aimed at significantly expanding production capacity and reinforcing its position in global rare earth supply chains.
The Kangankunde Project’s strong infrastructure base, including completed key licences, government support, and strategic partnerships, places Lindian in a promising position. The company’s focus now shifts toward executing commissioning and ramping up operations safely and efficiently.
Bottom Line?
Lindian is entering a critical execution phase with Kangankunde’s commissioning on the horizon, but operational complexities and leadership changes warrant close attention as production approaches.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Lindian manage the operational risks of simultaneous construction and mining ramp-up?
- What impact will the CFO resignation have on financial oversight during this pivotal period?
- How quickly can the SARECO facility in Kazakhstan scale production alongside Kangankunde?