Rare earths developer Pensana has reported that the completion of the extended processing plant plot area on its Longonjo rare earths refinery project, in Angola, lays the groundwork for accelerated construction activities.

The company notes that local stakeholders have expressed strong enthusiasm for the project’s progress, recognising the long-term economic and social benefits it brings to the region.

Pensana says the development has already created many new employment opportunities and fostered partnerships with local suppliers and communities.

“The completion of the extended plot area is a major step forward for us. It reflects the dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our local partners. There’s a real sense of momentum on the ground and the excitement among stakeholders is palpable.

“This project is receiving a huge amount of attention from regional and national stakeholders and is a flagship project for the country in the ongoing global investment that is driving development and growth in the region,” says country manager Geraldine Tchimbali.

The Longonjo rare earths deposit is located adjacent to the Lobito rail corridor about 60 km west of the provincial capital of Huambo, in central Angola.

The project currently under development comprises an openpit, concentrator and recovery plants, tailings storage facility – designed to meet the requirements of the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management – process water supply, bulk power supply, mine infrastructure, workshops, offices, accommodation village, recreational facilities and other associated infrastructure.

Pensana notes that the Longonjo operation will extract, concentrate, calcine and chemically refine the free-dig material to produce a high-value mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) to be railed 273 km to the Atlantic port of Lobito for export.

The mine is expected to initially produce 20 000 t/y of MREC, which could be scaled up to 40 000 t/y at a later stage.