Pensana Plc (LON: PRE) has provided a progress update on the construction of its Longonjo Rare Earths mine in Angola, confirming that the principal works are advancing on schedule and within budget, with first production targeted for commissioning in 2027.
Highlights include:
- Grupo Nov, the Angolan civil and earthworks company already involved in the Longonjo early works program, has completed site preparation and has commenced construction of the SRK designed Tailings Storage Facility according to Global Industry Standards on Tailings Management,
- The concrete batching plant has been established to provide for the civils and piling works required for the senior load bearing foundations of major equipment items on the compacted process plant terrace area,
- NCP has completed fabrication of the 2 MW regrind circuit ball mill which awaits delivery to site once foundations are complete during the next quarter,
- Clark in Brazil has commenced construction of the 250 tonne-per-day modular sulphuric acid plant after the completion of the Hazard and Operability Study review in late 2025,
- Procurement of all long lead items has been enabled to meet the targeted construction and budget schedules post conclusion of the detailed design processes by Lycopodium and Pro Process,
- Following procurement completion of the balance of the major capital items including flotation columns, calciner, thickeners and nano-filtration units, all detailed design and fabrication schedules remain on track for delivery from the respective vendors,
- Additional plant storage and laydown areas have been completed ahead of deliveries and installation due from mid-2026 onwards, and
- Regional government recognition and awards have been received for the Company’s positive economic and social impact, including community outreach programmes guided by IFC and Equator Principles risk management compliance.
Key activities currently underway include site preparation, construction of the Tailings Storage Facility, the establishment of an on-site concrete batching plant, and the fabrication of a 2 MW regrind mill. Construction has also commenced on the 250 tonne-per-day modular sulphuric acid plant, while procurement of long-lead items and major capital equipment remains on track.
The company noted that the infrastructure installed during 2025 is fully supporting the expanding construction workforce, which is expected to peak at approximately 750 personnel as the project progresses.
Tim George CEO commented: “We are delighted with the rapid progress on site as we construct and look to bring one of the world’s largest rare earth deposits into production next year. A significant amount of design work has now been completed followed by the efficient deployment of capital in establishing the site infrastructure. The decision to construct the process plant on a modular basis is important as it provides us with improved cost and delivery control. The team continues to strive towards completion of the significant workstreams currently underway. Whilst there is still much to do there is a growing sense of achievement as the project rapidly emerges.”
Pictures of the site construction activities are available on the Company’s website www.pensana.co.uk
