A newly established demonstration plant at a mining project in Uganda has produced its first batch of mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC), paving the way for full commercial production in 2026.

The plant was commissioned only nine months ago as part of the Mukuutu heavy rare earths project, which received its large-scale mining licence two months ago.

Mukuutu is 60% owned by Australia-based Ionic Rare Earths (IonicRE), which has agreed in a deal with its Uganda partner, Rwenzori Rare Metals, to up its stake to 98% this year, pending shareholder approval.

A final investment decision on the Mukuutu project is expected later this year, reports Engineering News.

The high proportion of heavy rare earths found at Mukuutu, located 120 km east of Kampala, makes it an attractive investment proposition.

IonicRE MD Tim Harrison described Mukuutu as ‘a disruptor to existing supply chains, providing an alternative, secure, sustainable and traceable source of heavy rare earths for new supply chains to emerge’.

19 March 2024
Image: Freepik