PERTH (miningweekly.com) – Graphite developer Walkabout Resources has awarded a $5.6-million bulk earthworks and $3.1-million civil engineering works contract to Tanzanian engineering firm TNR for work at its Lindi Jumbo project, in Tanzania.
The scope for the bulk earthworks contract includes the completion of site preparation for the processing plant, general infrastructure, and tailings storage facility and associated infrastructure, while the civils contract would include all earthworks, concrete works and building work on site associated with the graphite processing plant.
“We have one of the highest grade, undeveloped natural flake graphite projects globally, and as we move through satisfying the required conditions precedent required to release the CRDB Bank debt funding, we remain excited at the imminent escalation of activity on site in Tanzania and in China,” said CEO Andrew Cunningham.
“The company’s longstanding working relationship with TNR Engineering will enable a smooth transition to becoming a mine developer and producer.”
The Lindi Jumbo project is expected to require a capital investment of $32-million, including working capital and financing costs, with $3.6-million already having been spent on construction activities and on long-lead manufacturing items.
Over its 24-year mine life, the project is expected to produce some 40 000 t/y of graphite concentrate.