ASX-listed Globe Metals & Mining says preparations are on track for the construction of its Kanyika nio- bium mine in Malawi’s northern district of Mzimba.

Chairperson Shao Yi says the company has formally lodged its draft development agreement with the Malawi government for the $272-million project and that con- struction could start in the first quarter of this year.

“We are pleased with the planning progress for the development of the Kanyika niobium project. We are committed to the wellbeing of all Malawians, and we look forward to the project making a significant and meaningful contribution to the economic development of the country,” he says.

The estimated operating life of the project, which is located some 150 km north of the capital city, Lilongwe, is 20 years. It is expected that Kanyika will employ at least 820 workers, 600 of whom will be involved in the process plant and services, with 220 engaged in the mining operation.

Construction of the recovery plant and other infrastructure will take an estimated 18 months, and 1 500 to 2 000 people will be employed during this phase.

Shao says Globe presented an environmental-impact assessment report to the Malawi government in July.

The Malawi government is reportedly examining a number of issues before giving the go-ahead for construction to begin. These include protection of public health and safety of the workforce and community, ensuring the integrity and responsible management of environmental considerations, relocation and compensation of communities and individuals affected by the project, and adhering to global standards for corporate citizenship.

Says Shao: “A social responsibility plan, which includes supplying potable water to areas affected by the project, and a local business development programme are matters that are also addressed in the company’s development agreement submission to government.”

Niobium is used mainly in steel ‘super- alloys’ as well as in various superconducting materials.