Marula Mining PLC (AQSE: MARU A2X: MAR) is making significant progress with the commissioning of the Kilifi Manganese Processing Plant in Kenya. This marks a crucial milestone for the company as it solidifies its position as a key minerals producer in Africa.
The commissioning process at the Kilifi Plant is being carried out in stages, including pre-commissioning, dry commissioning, and wet commissioning. The on-site operations team has completed pre-commissioning activities, which involved inspecting and confirming modifications made to various sections of the plant, such as the trommel scrubber, vibrating screens, conveyors, and feed hopper.
Currently, the dry commissioning and pre-operational testing phase is progressing well, with mechanical and electrical testing of all equipment. Final upgrades and modifications are underway, with wet commissioning expected to start after dry commissioning is completed. This phase will involve processing manganese ore through the entire plant circuit, overseen by Zegatron Engineering Solutions (ZES) based in Nairobi.
Jason Brewer, CEO of Marula Mining, expressed confidence in the progress, stating that the upgrades and modifications at the Kilifi Plant are nearing completion. The focus now shifts to the commissioning phase, with the first manganese sales anticipated to begin in May 2025.
Marula Mining is an African-focused battery metals investment and exploration company with interests in various mining projects across Africa. The company aims to deliver returns to its shareholders by investing in high-value mining projects in the region.
As Marula advances its operations in battery metals projects, it continues to explore opportunities to expand its portfolio in Africa. The company’s shares are traded on the AQUIS Stock Exchange in London and A2X Markets in South Africa, with plans to potentially list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange and Johannesburg Stock Exchange.
The commissioning of the Kilifi Plant represents a significant development for Marula Mining and the manganese sector in Kenya. With the support of key contractors and the operations team, Marula is poised to transition smoothly into manganese processing operations, paving the way for future growth and success in the sector.