Sovereign Metals Advances Dry Mining Strategy at Malawi’s Kasiya Project

Sovereign Metals (ASX:SVM) has confirmed that its flagship Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project in Malawi can be mined using conventional dry mining techniques, marking a major milestone in its Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS). This confirmation follows successful pilot trials in 2024 and the completion of a comprehensive mining fleet design tailored for large-scale dry operations.

The dry mining approach, detailed in Sovereign’s optimised Prefeasibility Study, is expected to deliver significant operational flexibility, lower capital outlays, and improved environmental outcomes. Unlike traditional methods, Kasiya’s ore does not require drilling, blasting, crushing, or milling—streamlining operations and reducing costs.

The mining fleet has been engineered to support a 25-year life of mine, with more than 200 equipment units to be acquired over time, including replacements. The fleet includes draglines, large excavators, mine trucks, front-end loaders, dozers, graders, and articulated dump trucks. Initial deployment will begin with 36 units, scaling up to 81 units at peak operations.

Sovereign has identified a multi-supplier strategy to ensure competitive procurement and long-term support. Caterpillar (CAT) will serve as the primary supplier across multiple categories, while Komatsu will provide excavators, trucks, and support equipment. Liebherr has been selected for draglines and excavators, Hitachi for additional excavators and support gear, and Volvo for specific equipment categories.

CEO Frank Eagar emphasized that the validation of the dry mining method has enabled Sovereign to design a fleet that aligns with its commitment to low operating costs and operational reliability. “Our dragline-based dry mining method offers superior safety, flexibility, and environmental outcomes,” Eagar said. “This milestone brings us closer to DFS completion and reflects the systematic progress we’re making across all work streams.”

The DFS continues to advance, with ongoing work on process plant design optimization, infrastructure and logistics planning, and environmental and social impact assessments. Sovereign’s strategic phased deployment and supplier partnerships position Kasiya as a model for low-impact, high-efficiency mining in Africa.

Kasiya is already recognized as the world’s largest natural rutile deposit and the second-largest flake graphite deposit, making it a cornerstone of Malawi’s mining future and a key contributor to global critical mineral supply chains.