Aim- and ASX-listed Sovereign Metals has confirmed the mining method and completed the mining fleet design for the Kasiya rutile/graphite project, in Malawi, representing another significant milestone in the ongoing definitive feasibility study (DFS).

The company has finalised the selection of mining equipment specifically designed for large-scale dry mining operations at Kasiya.

Following the successful 2024 pilot phase mining trials that confirmed Kasiya ore can be efficiently mined using conventional dry mining techniques, the comprehensive fleet design encompasses both primary mining operations and support activities across the project’s proposed initial 25-year life of mine, the company points out.

The dry mining approach, detailed in its recent optimised prefeasibility study, is expected to deliver superior project delivery, operational flexibility and environmental outcomes, Sovereign avers.

The fleet deployment follows a strategic phased approach, with a total of about 200 plus equipment units to be purchased over the mine life, including replacements.

No drilling, blasting, crushing or milling is required at Kasiya, resulting in low capital outlays and operating costs, the company highlights.

Equipment selection and supplier identification has been completed for all operational requirements across the proposed initial mine life.  

“The successful validation of our dry mining approach through comprehensive pilot phase trials has enabled us to design a fleet that delivers on our commitment to industry-leading low operating costs while maintaining exceptional operational flexibility and reliability,” CEO Frank Eagar says.

“The strategic phased deployment demonstrates our disciplined approach to capital allocation and operational efficiency. Our dragline-based dry mining method offers superior safety, operational flexibility and environmental outcomes, while our multi-supplier strategy ensures competitive procurement and ongoing support.

“This milestone brings us closer to our DFS completion and demonstrates the systematic progress we are making across all work streams,” he adds.

The company highlights that it has conducted a comprehensive market analysis and identified leading global equipment manufacturers as potential suppliers, including Caterpillar, Komatsu, Liebherr Group, Hitachi and Volvo Group.