Mining exploration company Aterian, in partnership with Rio Tinto, is set to begin drilling at the HCK lithium project in Southern Rwanda in September 2024.
The decision follows positive soil sample results, indicating the presence of lithium-bearing minerals at the site.
Aterian is advancing to the drill planning stage, with a focus on the HCK-1 area. Five drill holes are planned to assess the potential of the pegmatites.
Preparatory work is scheduled to start by the end of August 2024, with drilling expected to commence by late September 2024.
Charles Bray, Chairman of Aterian, commented, “An extension of the comprehensive ground soil sampling program was completed in Q1, covering key target zones within the HCK project area. ,
These preliminary results mark a crucial milestone in our ongoing exploration efforts and provide a strong analytical framework for the next phase: the drill program.”
In Q1 2024, Aterian collected 2,274 auger soil samples, which have refined the company’s geological model and deepened its understanding of the area’s subsurface structures.
The company is now engaged in drill targeting, with earthwork proposals for drill pads and access already received and community discussions underway.
