Modern Mining January 2025

TOP PROJECTS

Letlhakane uranium mine key to a carbon-free future The Letlhakane uranium mine, one of the largest undeveloped uranium projects in the world is expected to make a positive contribution to a carbon-free future, while also building strong local communities and fostering a safe and healthy work environment.

Diamond drill rig extracting samples.

S ituated in Botswana, the Letlhakane uranium mine is thought to be one of the largest undeveloped uranium projects in the world, with owners Lotus Resources predicting that it has a resource base of some 155 mt at 345 ppm. Australia-based Lotus originally purchased the mine some years ago, with the ultimate plan being to restart the former mine in the near future. According to the business, it will be quite simple to get the operation going again, thanks to several recognised advantages. These include the fact that the project is situated close to high quality infrastructure - a sealed road, rail line and a nearby power line. In addition, a major population centre, Francistown, is located relatively close by - it is within 50km of the mine. Lotus Resources – a leading ASX listed uranium developer – is well placed to become a major

player in the uranium market, owning 100% of the Letlhakane Uranium Project, along with having an 85% stake in Malawi’s Kayelekera Uranium Project. Keith Bowes, MD at Lotus Resources, points out that the organisation is positioning itself as a responsible uranium producer. This is something he claims will be achieved by focusing on ensuring not only a safe and healthy work environment, but by also building strong local communities and, ultimately, by playing a positive role in contributing to a carbon-free future. Planning and redevelopment He advises that Lotus is currently progressing with beneficiation test work at the mine, along with conducting geometallurgical modelling and undertaking a processing options study. “I believe that we already have the necessary requirements in place to begin operations.

38  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | JANUARY 2025