Globe Metals & Mining Ltd. has begun construction at its Kanyika niobium project in Malawi, as it transitions the project from feasibility into execution.
The company is set to commence early works and mobilisation in January, in alignment with its updated bankable feasibility study target for March. First oxide production is expected in the first quarter of 2028.
Globe Metals CEO Charles Altshuler said starting construction at Kanyika is a “clear transition” for the project, which is a fully permitted and engineered project.
“The commencement of early works represents the culmination of years of technical research, permitting, and community engagement, transforming into physical progress on site, including access infrastructure, earthworks, and site establishment,” Altshuler said.
“The agreement with Sinomine allows us to proceed methodically on pre-development, validating construction, and operation cost inputs for the Bankable Feasibility Study and advancing downstream oxide qualification work, while retaining full ownership and control over the project.
“Importantly, the agreement is structured on a cost-reimbursable basis with a fixed management fee.
“This ensures capital discipline as we leverage Sinomine’s expertise and experience for the project’s progression toward full construction and first oxide production.”
The Kanyika niobium project is located in central Malawi and will be developed in two phases to de-risk the project.
The project will be fully integrated on the mine site to produce high-value niobium and tantalum oxides for direct export to foreign markets.
Globe Metals signed a binding pre-development collaboration agreement with Sinomine International Engineering to construct the Kitumba copper mine in Zambia.
Initial construction activities include access-road upgrades, bulk earthworks, drainage and stormwater controls, fencing and site security, water infrastructure, and the establishment of a construction camp.
Globe Metals will reimburse Sinomine for direct costs incurred from this agreement and a fixed monthly management fee of US$20,000 for project management.