Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine's (SMM's) newly appointed COO, Aiden Schoonbee, will oversee the Western Cape-based thorium and rare earth project’s execution into full production and the subsequent development of downstream hydrometallurgical cracking facilities.

“This follows an increasing global and national focus on securing critical minerals, notably rare earth supply chains, for which the company is favourably positioned,” says Steenkampskraal Holdings chairperson Dr Enock Mathebula.

He notes that Schoonbee is a mining executive who drives innovation, expansion and growth. He has ten years’ experience operating at the general management level, directing complex capital projects, promoting mine-wide business improvement and operations management. 

“His leadership experience spans multiple commodities, including gold, diamonds, coal, nickel, copper and iron-ore and he has hands-on experience in remote mining locations and has a successful record of managing engineer, procure and construction management (EPCM), engineering, procurement and construction and owner’s self-performed contracting models with multinational teams.”

Schoonbee recently served as executive manager of Phalaborwa Mining Company (PMC). During his tenure at PMC, he delivered flotation, milling and magnetic separation processing plant projects, underground gyratory crushing, ventilation and materials handling infrastructure including shaft sinking.

He founded the Value Improving Practices (VIP) division focusing on business innovation and project delivery and directed production and maintenance activities at the Copper Concentrator. Previously, Schoonbee held management roles within African Eagle, ADP Kukama, Debswana, Wexford Goldfields and Golden Star Resources.

He holds a Master of Engineering degree. His stakeholder engagements have included working with government regulators, banks, investors, public and private sector organisations and trade unions.

Welcoming his arrival, Mathebula says Schoonbee’s appointment is an important step in the company’s strategic vision to develop and exploit the richest monazite mine in the world. 

“Aidan joins Steenkampskraal at a pivotal stage in the development of the mine as we progress towards first production and prepare for the transition into full-scale operations. His extensive experience in the execution of complex mining projects, operational management and business improvement will strengthen our leadership team and provide valuable support in ensuring that Steenkampskraal is developed safely, efficiently and sustainably,” says Mathebula.

“He drives change through embracing innovative technologies and home-grown solutions, ensuring that teams are aligned around shared objectives. His track record of successful project delivery and relationships across the industry will be invaluable as we work to ensure the successful development of a sustainable rare earth and thorium supply chain in South Africa.

“Steenkampskraal is entering an exceptionally exciting period in its development. Our immediate focus is on successfully bringing the mine into production and establishing a safe, efficient and sustainable operation. Beyond first production, our vision extends to the development of downstream processing capabilities and the beneficiation of our mineral resources in South Africa. 

“With the growing global importance of rare earths, thorium and critical minerals, SMM is uniquely positioned to play a meaningful role in strengthening South Africa’s position within the international rare-earth and thorium supply chain, while creating long-term value for our shareholders, employees, surrounding communities and the country. We are confident about the trajectory of SMM and believe the next chapter will be one of significant growth, development and opportunity,” Mathebula concludes.