Aim-listed Kazera Global continues to make progress at both a corporate and operational level, and of particular importance is the increased cooperation and positive relationship between Kazera’s subsidiaries and Alexkor RMC joint venture (JV), as it works together to create job opportunities for the Richtersveld community in South Africa, CEO Dennis Edmonds says in a corporate and operational update.

The Alexkor RMC JV is a JV between Alexkor and the Richtersveld Mining Company, a company formed to represent the interests of Alexkor and the Richtersveld community.

Further, strategic shareholder African Mineral Sands Singapore (AMS) bought a further tranche of Kazera’s ordinary shares from an existing shareholder, triggering the transfer of voting rights to AMS over 29.9% of the company’s ordinary shares currently in issue.

“The completion of the acquisition of a further tranche of Kazera shares by AMS is also a significant, positive development for Kazera.

“AMS now holds voting rights through shares it has acquired to date, and via agreements with Catalyse Capital and its related parties, of more than 29.9% of the shares in the company. Kazera has already begun exploring potential new investment opportunities put forward to the company by AMS,” Edmonds outlines.

The pilot plant at Whale Head Minerals, in Walviskop, is said to show very promising heavy mineral sand (HMS) results with sample and test results forming the basis for informed strategic discussions with potential offtake partners, Kazera says.

HMS samples indicate the presence of higher-value minerals including rutile, zircon and monazite. Samples are identified to have raised levels of radioactivity and the company has engaged with the National Nuclear Regulator to determine whether any specific permitting is required.

“Whilst the presence of radiation in HMS samples may be seen by some as an issue, it is a situation that is not uncommon in the HMS sector and has, equally importantly, helped highlight the presence of higher value minerals in our HMS samples.

“The detailed baseline study that has been conducted and other associated work will allow us to seek clarification on permitting, as well as tailor our operations and inform our approach to environmental management and rehabilitation,” Edmonds outlines.

“While on a basic level any delay is frustrating, the testing and sampling work we have undertaken has highlighted the economic case for separation as it will ultimately result in the sale of higher value HMS constituents, rather than a lower price for the basic HMS product.

“We will ensure we use the time (whilst gaining clarification from the relevant authority) to continue with the procurement of equipment, site preparation and construction, and in progressing discussions with potential offtake partners, so that we put ourselves in the strongest possible position for the commencement of HMS sales,” he adds.

Meanwhile, aggregate proceeds of $4.2-million have been received to date from Hebei Xinjian Construction in respect of the sale of African Tantalum (Aftan), in Namibia, as announced on December 22, 2022. The situation remains under review.