Phase one process for Makuutu rare earths project complete
Phase one works on the Makuutu rare earths project has been completed. Ionic Rare Earths (IonicRE) confirmed the report and said the completion marks a significant milestone for the company.
Makuutu rare earths project is situated 40km east of Jinga and 120km to the east of the capital city of Kampala, in the eastern region of Uganda. Spread over 298km², the project encompasses three exploration licenses in EL00257, EL00147 and EL00148 and three retention licenses RL00007, RL 1693 and RL00234. Stage one of the development will focus on RL 1693.
Makuutu rare earths project
Developed by IonicRE’s local Ugandan operating entity, Rwenzori Rare Metals, the project has employed locals as casual laborers during the construction phase, demonstrating a commitment to economic growth and community engagement.
The technical equipment at the facility will play a crucial role in enhancing metallurgical test work and providing validation for various aspects of the project, including grade control, mine design, material handling, and metallurgical reconciliation. These aspects are essential for securing project financing and strategic partnerships.
The completion of front-end processing of materials at the technical facility, which includes homogenization, screening, and sizing processes, has yielded vital data for ongoing desorption processes. With the demonstration plant now operating on a 24-hour schedule, the company aims to expedite the development and scale-up of mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) production, which is expected to commence within the next two weeks.
Tim Harrison, managing director of IonicRE, expressed delight at the successful completion of Phase 1 commissioning and anticipated the first MREC production within the next two weeks. He emphasized the importance of this milestone in validating the mine development plan and generating MREC samples for off-take discussions with potential partners in the coming months.
