Globe Metals Begins Construction at Kanyika Niobium Project in Malawi

Globe Metals Advances Kanyika Niobium Project Construction

Globe Metals & Mining has officially begun construction at the Kanyika Niobium Project in Malawi. Furthermore, this move follows a binding pre-development agreement with Sinomine International (Zambia) Engineering, a division of the Sinomine Resource Group. As a result, the agreement marks a decisive shift from feasibility studies to active project execution, positioning Kanyika as a key supplier in global advanced-materials markets.

The project, fully permitted and engineered, will produce niobium and tantalum, which are critical for aerospace, automotive, and high-tech applications. Moreover, located within the Mozambique Orogenic Belt, Kanyika spans 3.5 km and contains four pyrochlore-rich zones. Currently, mobilisation and initial works—including camp setup, earthworks, drainage, fencing, and road upgrades—are underway, aligning with the company’s revised bankable feasibility study (BFS) scheduled for March 2026.

Globe anticipates first oxide production in Q1 2028. Consequently, this fulfills obligations under its Mining Development Agreement and Large-Scale Mining Licence. In addition, the project retains full ownership and control, while Sinomine provides early contractor involvement (ECI) services, deploying experienced personnel to refine construction processes, validate costs, and optimise procurement strategies.

Kanyika Niobium Project: Strategic Importance and Industry Impacts

The Kanyika Niobium Project will significantly bolster Malawi’s position in the global metals market. Since niobium is crucial for steel strengthening, battery materials, and high-tech alloys, it drives demand across multiple industries. Therefore, Globe’s methodical approach, supported by Sinomine’s expertise, ensures early-stage risk mitigation and efficient cost management, ultimately improving investor confidence.

The agreement structure is cost-reimbursable. Specifically, Globe covers verified direct costs and a fixed monthly management fee of $20,000 (A$28,317), with no additional equity or fees involved. As a result, this arrangement allows the company to advance project milestones while retaining full project autonomy. Additionally, a 2025 non-binding memorandum of understanding with Myst Trading secures potential offtake for the first phase of production, further reinforcing Kanyika’s strategic market relevance.

By completing early works and infrastructure, Globe Metals demonstrates a smooth transition from planning to execution. These steps include stormwater controls, water systems, and site security, which are critical for operational readiness and regulatory compliance. Meanwhile, early construction helps validate costs and prepare the site for full-scale production.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Globe Metals’ start of construction at Kanyika signals a strategic milestone in niobium supply chains. Moreover, early contractor involvement with Sinomine reduces execution risks, while maintaining full project control maximizes shareholder value. As demand for niobium grows in high-tech applications, Kanyika positions Malawi as a credible global supplier. Consequently, it may stabilize market pricing and create attractive investment opportunities.