Andrew Cunningham, Managing Director and CEO of Walkabout Resources, reported last week that despite persistent and significant shipping delays, the commissioning of the Lindi Jumbo project, a new graphite mine in Tanzania, is advancing according to plan.
While the ASX-listed company faced challenges with freight discharge in Dar es Salaam, all essential mechanical and electrical equipment required for wet commissioning of the processing circuit has been received on site.
Although some smaller consignments are still en route or awaiting discharge in Dar es Salaam, including backup generators and consumables, Walkabout Resources has contingency plans in place.
In the event of further port delays, the company plans to utilize mobile generating capacity to manage any grid power interruptions and ensure an orderly plant shutdown, minimizing operational risks.
To mitigate potential delays in receiving consumables, Walkabout Resources has placed orders with alternative African suppliers, with transportation via road expected well in advance of startup.
The project achieved its first graphite ore feed through the crushing circuit in early January and is now preparing to feed ore through the entire processing circuit within the next month.
Cunningham expressed confidence in the project’s progress, commending the team and contractors for navigating the construction process effectively.
He anticipates the commencement of feeding high-grade graphite ore through the entire circuit in the coming month.
Upon completion of commissioning activities, the Lindi Jumbo mine will officially become Tanzania’s first modern, large-scale graphite mine and the first critical minerals asset in the country to enter full production.
