Lindian Resources (ASX:LIN) has begun the maiden drilling program at its Kangakunde rare earths project in Malawi, which has a globally significant rare earths resource in potential size, grade, and quality.
The carbonatite host has outstanding grades of up to 23.7% TREO, with very low thorium.
Phase 1 of the drill program is underway, which will consist of 44 holes for 12,500 metres and is designed to provide definition of mineralisation in the upper 300 metres of Kangakunde.
First assays from phase 1 are expected in about six to eight weeks, with metallurgical sampling to start this month.
Phase 2 of the drill program will comprise two additional deep drill hole, each 1,000 metres in length, to test the extent and tenor of mineralisation down to 800 metres.
Lindian Resources chief executive officer Alistair Stephens said: “When I commenced with Lindian in early August 2022, I set an ambitious plan to be drilling at Kangankunde within 3 months.
“With shareholder approval for the acquisition granted in late September, and the blessing of the Kangankunde Community who have supported our plan, I thank the Lindian team who have worked tirelessly to prepare all necessary logistics and supplies that are necessary for a drill program of the size we are embarking upon.
“This is the first drill program at Kangankunde since the 1990s.
“It will form the basis toward a Mineral Resource Estimate under the 2012 JORC code, or at a minimum, an exploration target.
“A steady stream of news in the form of assay results, metallurgical test work results, additional exploration targets, and potentially an MRE, represent multiple value drivers for shareholders.
“I look forward with excitement to the results of the works programs and will provide further updates as we progress.”
